The Effect of Combining Insecticide Treated Nets and Indoor Residual Spraying for Vector Control of Malaria: A Systematic Review

Throughout a large portion of our planet, malaria has been nearly eradicated or reduced to levels that are highly manageable, and many countries possess the means to effectively treat the disease. However, many areas of the world, such as Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, are still heavily burdened by malaria. In order to manage the transmission of malaria and reduce its prevalence throughout these areas of the world, the World Health Organization recommends implementation of vector control. Insecticide treated nets and indoor residual spraying are among the most effective methods for controlling the malaria vector. However, it is undetermined whether combining both of these treatments allows for an additional benefit to controlling the vector and reducing the transmission of malaria. Several studies published within the past five years have investigated the presence of an added benefit by combining these treatments within areas of Sub-Saharan Africa. In this thesis, a systematic review was performed in order to identify relevant studies. Full text analysis was then implemented in order to abstract meaningful data from these studies. Compared to past reviews, this review identified a higher degree of support for the presence of an added benefit when both treatments are combined. Recommendations for future studies on the subject matter were provided in order to promote the reduction of malaria prevalence throughout affected regions of the world