AIRID --Detail Project

Bold Science. African-Led. Impact-Driven

Started: January 1, 2025

Project

Ongoing

Overview

The OPTIMVEC project is a cutting-edge research initiative designed to address the challenge of residual malaria transmission during the third year after mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). In Benin, the project is led by the Centre de Recherche Entomologique de Cotonou (CREC) in collaboration with the African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases (AIRID), with modelling support from Imperial College London.

Project Description

Optimising Complementary Insecticide-Based Strategies for Malaria Vector Control

Principal Investigator

Dr Corine Ngufor

Background

The OPTIMVEC project is a cutting-edge research initiative designed to address the challenge of residual malaria transmission that persists during the third year after mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). As ITNs age and lose efficacy—especially in areas with widespread insecticide resistance—new strategies are urgently needed to maintain protection. The project aims to identify and optimise insecticide-based interventions that can complement ITNs and enhance overall vector control effectiveness.

Project Objectives

Assess the synergistic or antagonistic effects of combining insecticides through laboratory bioassays.
Evaluate the efficacy of supplementary vector control tools (e.g., spatial repellents, IRS) with aged ITNs.
Model the public health impact of various intervention combinations under diverse conditions.
Explore the influence of environmental variables and resistance on intervention outcomes.

Core Activities

Laboratory Research

Testing insecticide combinations against both pyrethroid-susceptible and -resistant mosquitoes.
Synergist bioassays (e.g., PBO + pyrethroids).
Behavioural assays on mosquito responses to spatial repellents and ITNs.

Experimental Hut Trials

Pairing transfluthrin passive emanators with aged ITNs.
Trials in huts with different structural designs.
Controlled mosquito release studies with resistant and susceptible strains.

Modelling & Environmental Analysis

Simulations of malaria burden reduction with various intervention mixes.
Analysis of temperature, humidity, and housing factors.
Identification of optimal tool combinations for specific settings.

AIRID’s Role

AIRID plays a central role in implementing experimental hut studies and supporting laboratory evaluations in Benin. Its field infrastructure and expertise are essential to testing innovative strategies that can inform national and global policies.

Partners & Funders

Lead Institution: Centre de Recherche Entomologique de Cotonou (CREC)
Research Collaborator: African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases (AIRID)
Modelling Consultant: Imperial College London
Funder: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation