Epidemiological Profiling of Vector-Borne Diseases and Development of Cellulose Based Sustainable Vector Control Strategies in Una District, Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) remain a significant public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions, including the foothill areas of Himachal Pradesh. The present study investigates the epidemiological trends of major vector-borne diseases in Una district from 2015 to 2024 and proposes sustainable vector control strategies using cellulose-based biodegradable materials. Secondary epidemiological data were analyzed to understand disease incidence patterns, seasonal distribution, and vector density trends. The results indicate an increasing incidence of dengue during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, while malaria cases remained relatively low. The study further explores eco-friendly, cellulose-based vector control approaches as sustainable alternatives to chemical insecticides. Locally available biomass resources such as pine needles, rice husk, and wheat straw were utilized to develop these strategies. Epidemiological data, entomological surveys, and laboratory experiments were integrated to assess vector distribution and to develop biodegradable larvicidal systems. The findings reveal higher vector density and disease incidence in low-hill agro-climatic zones, attributed to favorable temperatures, water storage practices, and rapid urban expansion. Cellulose-based controlled-release systems demonstrated significant larval mortality (>70%) while reducing environmental toxicity. Overall, the study highlights the potential of eco-friendly, biomaterial-based vector control strategies for sustainable disease management in Himalayan ecosystems. The integration of epidemiological surveillance, GIS-based spatial analysis, and biodegradable vector control materials provides a comprehensive approach to reducing disease transmission in the agro-climatic regions of Himachal Pradesh.