The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the eradication of insects aboard aircraft (disinsection) to prevent the importation of vector-borne malaria and other tropical diseases such as dengue. For this purpose, pyrethroids are WHO’s insecticides of choice. Although aircraft disinsection is no longer practiced in the United States because of potential adverse effects and lack of proven efficacy, several other countries still require it. Because an aircraft may be routed to multiple destinations, all airline passengers and crew may be exposed to pesticides used for disinsection. While the pyrethroid insecticides are safer than other pesticide alternatives used for malaria control, they may have adverse effects on human health. In 1998-1999, pyrethroid pesticides accounted for 15% of occupational pesticide illness cases (91 of 624 cases consistent with pesticide illness) reported to the California Department of Health Services’ Sentinel Event Notification System for Occupational Risk (SENSOR). Health effects included dermatologic (22%), respiratory (19%), gastrointestinal (69%), and neurologic (73%). Flight attendants were among workers reporting these illnesses. There is ample evidence in the published literature and through illness surveillance programs to indicate that exposure to pyrethroid pesticides may result in adverse health effects. There are no studies, however, demonstrating that aircraft disinsection is effective in preventing the spread of malaria. Thus, current recommendations for aircraft disinsection are based on weak data. We examine the issue of aircraft disinsection and present several recommendations regarding controlling the spread of vector-borne diseases without jeopardizing the health and safety of airline passengers and crew.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the audience will be able to: 1. Discuss the methods used for aircraft disinsection 2. Recognize the health effects that may be associated with aircraft disinsection 3. Articulate the need for alternative forms of vector control on aircraft
Keywords: Pesticides, Infectious Diseases
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.