The PMI VectorLink Project Malawi 2020 End of Spray Report: Spray Campaign: October 26 – December 4, 2020

The campaign aimed to control malaria transmission in Nkhotakota District. Initial assessments identified areas with high malaria transmission and low IRS coverage as priority targets. Implementation of IRS activities involved planning and partner collaboration, trainings, spray operations and supervision, insecticide and stock management, and information, education, and communication (IEC) activities. The project trained 2,500 seasonal workers, who conducted IRS operations in 15 communities. Community mobilization meetings and dialogue sessions were conducted to engage community leaders and promote IRS acceptance. Mass media communication activities included radio and television broadcasts to raise awareness about IRS benefits. Entomology assessments were conducted to evaluate insecticide susceptibility and spray quality. Insecticide susceptibility tests revealed that Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes were resistant to Actellic 300CS. Spray quality assessments showed that SumiShield 50WG and Actellic 300CS met the required standards. Residual efficacy monitoring indicated that Actellic 300CS retained its efficacy for up to 12 weeks after spraying. Environmental compliance and safety measures were implemented to minimize the campaign's impact on the environment and ensure worker safety. Pre-season environmental assessments identified potential risks, and mid-spray environmental inspections monitored compliance with safety protocols. Medical examinations and transportation safety measures were also implemented. Incident reports were documented, and corrective actions were taken to address any issues. Monitoring and evaluation activities were conducted to assess the campaign's effectiveness. Data collection and quality assurance ensured accurate reporting of campaign results. mHealth technology was used to track campaign progress and monitor insecticide use. IRS results showed that 95% of structures were sprayed, with 5% refusals and 1% structures not sprayed due to structural issues. Insecticide use and structures sprayed per spray operator were also monitored. Challenges and lessons learned from the campaign included equipment costs, community resistance, and logistical issues. Recommendations for future campaigns included improving community engagement, enhancing equipment management, and strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems. The campaign's results demonstrated the effectiveness of IRS in controlling malaria transmission in Nkhotakota District.