Chemosensory interference: spatial repellents

How the intervention works: The spatial repellent intervention under evaluation is a transfluthrin-based passive emanator produced by SC Johnson. The spatial repellent product contains volatile chemicals that disperse in air under ambient conditions (no requirement of electricity or heat to volatize); the device can be placed inside or around houses. The volatile chemicals introduced into the air repel mosquitoes from entering the treated space and/or disrupt human biting and feeding habits, possibly impacting their survival and reproductive behaviour.

Disease(s) that may be reduced in prevalence or prevented: Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika virus disease and malaria.

Population(s) intended to be protected: Populations of all ages and genders living in enclosed and/or semi-enclosed structures in areas endemic for daytime, early-evening or late-night biting by malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

Status of review: Epidemiological trials have been conducted on Sumba Island, Indonesia, and in Iquitos, Peru, to generate the epidemiological data required to assess the product’s impact on human infection with malaria parasites, dengue and Zika virus disease, respectively. The results of the trial in Indonesia were discussed by the VCAG in May 2019, and those of the trial in Peru were discussed at the June 2020 VCAG meeting. Three other epidemiological trials are planned.