Integrated management of blood-feeding arthropods in veterinary teaching facilities - Part 2: overview of control methods against adults and immature stages.

Abstract

Numerous arthropod species are involved in the vector-borne transmission of pathogens either to animals and/or to humans. Part 1 of this paper was dedicated to a review of these species, and their role in the transmission of pathogens in North-western Europe. This part will discuss the different anti-arthropod control methods, which are either general, used as good management practices, or arthropod-specific. The majority of these measures are efficient against several arthropod groups. Management of the environment is crucial for controlling the immature stages of winged arthropods, fleas and lice, but also ticks. Spraying pesticides should be considered carefully, because of the risk of emergence of resistance and the negative impact on the environment and non-targeted insects. Monitoring of haematophagous arthropods is useful when considering its use in the validation of control measures, the follow-up of endemic populations, vigilance for emergence of new species, and the detection of pathogens and, indirectly, resistance to chemicals. Monitoring also helps to determine the most appropriate timing and location for implementing control measures. It is strongly advised to combine control methods targeting adults and others addressing immature stages. Even if challenging, their combination under an integrated pest management programme should be preferred. Indeed, integrated vector management aims at making vector control more efficient, cost-effective, ecologically sound and sustainable.