Mauritius, a strategically located island nation with strong connections to both Asia and Africa, proactively safeguards its environment and public health through robust biosecurity measures. Recognizing the potential threat posed by invasive mosquito species, particularly Anopheles stephensi – a known malaria vector – Mauritius has implemented a comprehensive surveillance program. This initiative focuses on key entry points and strategic locations Where In Mauritius the risk of vector introduction is highest, showcasing a commitment to early detection and prevention.
Leveraging the existing infrastructure of the Aedes control program, the Vector Biology and Control Division of the Ministry of Health initiated enhanced entomological surveys in June 2021. These surveys were meticulously conducted at crucial points of entry including the seaport and airport, as well as on ships transporting livestock. This targeted approach acknowledges the pathways through which invasive species might be introduced, ensuring that surveillance efforts are concentrated where in Mauritius they can be most effective.
The scale of the surveillance is noteworthy. Over 18 million mosquito larval surveys were carried out at the airport, seaport, and other localities across Mauritius. Complementing this, adult mosquito surveys were also performed at these entry points and at twenty-six animal assembly points. This dual approach, targeting both larvae and adult mosquitoes, provides a comprehensive picture of the mosquito population and any potential invasive threats where in Mauritius these populations might establish. Furthermore, the surveillance extended beyond public health concerns to include vectors of veterinary importance, such as Culicoides spp., demonstrating a holistic “One Health” approach in collaboration with National Parks and Conservation Service and landowners.
The results of this extensive surveillance effort are reassuring. Out of thousands of adult mosquitoes collected and larval habitats examined, no Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes were detected. The mosquito species identified included Aedes albopictus, Anopheles arabiensis, and other common species like Culex quinquefasciatus. The absence of An. stephensi confirms the effectiveness of the preventative measures and ongoing surveillance in Mauritius. These findings are crucial for maintaining the health security of Mauritius and preventing the establishment of new disease vectors where in Mauritius vulnerable populations reside and travel.
Mauritius’s proactive approach extends beyond its borders through regional collaboration. Sharing its One Health approach with organizations like the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) has strengthened partnerships with Réunion Island on vector surveillance and insecticide resistance monitoring. Moreover, alerting the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) to the potential risk of An. stephensi has fostered regional cooperation in developing response strategies and training programs involving Comoros, Madagascar, Réunion Island, and Seychelles. This regional leadership highlights Mauritius’s commitment to broader health security beyond its own territory, sharing its expertise and successful strategies with neighboring islands where in Mauritius‘s collaborative spirit extends.
In conclusion, Mauritius serves as a model for other nations demonstrating how existing public health entomology capabilities can be effectively utilized to enhance vector surveillance and control. By creating multisectoral networks and adopting a proactive, island-wide approach to surveillance, Mauritius effectively addresses potential vector-borne disease threats. The successful surveillance program highlights the importance of targeted interventions at key locations where in Mauritius biosecurity is paramount, ensuring a healthy and safe environment for its population and visitors.
