Arbovirus Vector Treatments, With The Use Of Chemical Or Physical Antilarvals, Planning Through Citizen Involvement: An Efficient Bottom-Up Model

In 2024, the Municipality of Genoa enhanced pest control measures based on the city's characteristics, including population density and morphology. These actions were informed by data collected over the past three years from areas with the highest mosquito abundance reported by residents. Control measures included the application of biological larvicidal products and the installation of mechanical devices inside rainwater manholes to prevent oviposition in standing water. Genoa, the sixth-largest city in Italy by population, is divided into nine districts. It was one of the first entry points of Aedes albopictus into Europe (1990) and is currently the southernmost site in Europe where Aedes koreicus is present. Critical areas within each district were identified by integrating environmental indicators (e.g., demographics and geomorphology) with citizen participation. These efforts align with a "One Health" approach, aiming to prevent the potential urbanization of arbovirus vectors or the establishment of invasive species (e.g., Aedes aegypti). The strategy focuses on optimizing containment techniques while minimizing the unnecessary spread of chemical insecticides.