Impact of Vector Control Interventions on Dengue Transmission: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Dengue remains one of the most widespread mosquito-borne viral infections globally, transmitted mainly by Aedes aegypti. In the absence of universally effective vaccines or antivirals, vector control remains the cornerstone of prevention. However, the effectiveness of various interventions in reducing dengue transmission has not been consistently demonstrated. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the impact of vector control interventions on dengue incidence and entomological indices across endemic regions.

Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL) were searched up to August 2025 for randomized controlled, quasi-experimental, and observational studies evaluating chemical, biological, environmental, or community-based vector control interventions. Data extraction and quality appraisal (Cochrane RoB 2 and ROBINS-I) were performed independently by two reviewers. Pooled estimates were computed using DerSimonian–Laird random-effects models, and heterogeneity was assessed with the I² statistic.

Results: Forty-eight studies from 23 countries were included, with 32 eligible for meta-analysis. Integrated Vector Management (IVM) produced a 32% reduction in dengue incidence (RR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.56–0.83; I² = 62%), while biological interventions such as Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes achieved a 43% reduction (RR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.41–0.78). Larval source management reduced dengue incidence by 21% (RR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.63–0.98), whereas chemical control alone showed no significant effect. Entomological indices (House, Container, and Breteau) improved by 39–47% on average.

Conclusions: Integrated and biological vector control interventions substantially reduce dengue transmission and vector densities, outperforming chemical control methods. Sustainable, community-centered programs combining environmental, biological, and limited chemical measures are essential for long-term impact. Strengthened surveillance, resistance management, and standardized outcome reporting are vital to guide global dengue prevention strategies.