Field evaluation of the efficacy of ovillanta ovitrap towards Aedes spp. control in a dengue endemic area of Kerala, India

A small-scale field trial was conducted to understand the efficacy of the ovillanta ovitrap against Aedes vector population in a dengue endemic area of Kerala state. A total of 40 ovillantas were installed in experimental area, and the immature density of Aedes vectors were monitored over 14 months. Pre- and post- intervention entomological evaluations were conducted in both the experimental and control areas to assess the density of Aedes spp. An increasing trend in the weekly average immature density was observed, indicating the efficacy of the trap to lure gravid vectors to oviposit, which reached a peak at 39th week. Forty ovillantas enabled to destroy more than 100,000 immatures, during the 53-week study period, thus preventing the emergence of second generation of vectors. There was a significant reduction in the adult and immature indices of the experimental area, compared to the control area. The results of the study suggest that the ovillanta is a simple and portable tool that may be suitable for community use in Aedes vector control.