Effectiveness of Novel Vector Control Strategies against Mosquitoes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue, malaria, and Zika, impose a staggering global burden, with over 700,000 annual deaths and escalating insecticide resistance undermining traditional vector controls. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of novel vector control strategies, including biological (e.g., Wolbachia releases), genetic (e.g., sterile insect technique [SIT], gene drives), and technological (e.g., auto-dissemination and mass trapping systems) in suppressing mosquito populations and reducing disease transmission. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and grey literature from January 2010 to December 2025, screening 1,247 records. After deduplication (n=357) and exclusions, 32 field and semi-field studies met inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I, with GRADE for evidence certainty. Biological interventions achieved 50-97% reductions in dengue incidence in urban trials and 49-97% suppression of Aedes populations. Genetic strategies, including SIT and combined IIT-SIT, suppressed target populations by 45-98%, while gene-drive constructs demonstrated 71.6-100% suppression or transmission-blocking in laboratory and modelling studies. Technological traps and auto-dissemination approaches reduced adult mosquito populations by 55-100% in specific contexts. Overall, novel strategies demonstrated significant, resistance-resilient effectiveness. Evidence certainty was moderate for Wolbachia and SIT but low for gene drives due to limited field trials. Where reported, safety profiles were favourable and implementation was feasible. These findings support the integration of novel tools into the WHO’s Global Vector Control Response (GVCR) framework and highlight the need for long-term field trials, particularly in high-burden African settings, to realize their equitable public health potential.