Use of Vector Diagnostics During Military Deployments: Recent Experience in Iraq and Afghanistan

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and leishmaniasis are a threat to military forces deployed outside of the United States. The availability of specific information on the vector-borne disease threat (e.g., presence or absence of a specific disease agent, temporal and geographic distribution of competent vectors, and vector infection rates) allows for effective implementation of appropriate measures to protect our deployed military forces. Vector diagnostics can provide critical, real-time information crucial to establishing effective vector prevention/control programs. In this article we provide an overview of current vector diagnostic capabilities, evaluate the use of vector diagnostics in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and discuss the concept of operations under which vector diagnostics are employed.

The sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) in military camps in northern Afghanistan (2007–2009), as identified by morphology and DNA ‘barcoding’

“…In the initial study of wild-caught Old-World sandflies, Phlebotomus species are usually separated from Sergentomyia (Coleman et al, 2009), and the female sandflies from the males (the males being easily recognised by their terminalia). If based, as usual, on morphology, any further identification of the sandflies requires the insects to be mounted on slides, with the time-consuming micro-dissection of the female spermathecae and head capsule (cibarium and pharynx) and the male terminalia, genital pump and head capsule (cibarium) often necessary to make an accurate identification to species level.…”

The Impact of National Militaries on Global Health

“…Sand flies are crepuscular, with the highest infection rates occurring at dusk and dawn [34]. The organisms responsible for causing leishmaniasis are found in over parasite in areas where NATO troops are operating [35]. Rates of infection in military personnel can be high.…”

Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases: challenges and opportunities for militaries

“…For example, after a tenfold increase in measles and fourfold increase in rubella from 1976-1980 to 1991-1995, mandatory MMR vaccination was instituted. Likewise, on noting that influenza was the foremost cause for febrile respiratory illnesses leading to substantial morbidity [75], the Singapore Armed Forces thereafter instituted annual influenza vaccination with significant success [76].…”