A Guide to Aircraft Disinsection Amid Dengue & Zika Alert

Navigating the Skies Safely: A Guide to Aircraft Disinsection Amid Global Dengue & Zika Alert

The recent circular issued by Italy's Ministry of Health, spurred by a dengue fever emergency in Brazil and a subsequent global upsurge in cases, serves as a critical reminder for aircraft operators of the paramount importance of aircraft disinsection. With over 600,000 dengue infections reported worldwide in just the early months of 2024, the imperative for stringent pest control measures at international entry points, including ports and airports, has never been more evident.

This guide aims to provide aircraft operators with essential insights into the significance of aircraft disinsection, the regulatory backdrop, and actionable steps to ensure compliance and safety in light of the recent health alerts.

Understanding the Risks

Dengue and Zika, primarily spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has seen an alarming resurgence, prompting heightened vigilance. These diseases’ rapid spread underscores the critical need for aircraft disinsection as a preventive measure against importing vector-borne diseases across borders.

The Regulatory Landscape

International health regulations mandate specific measures to mitigate the risks posed by vector-borne diseases, including dengue. The circular from Italy's Ministry of Health, alongside directives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), outlines the requirements for keeping airport and port areas free from sources of infection, emphasizing the need for aircraft disinsection.

EPA and CDC Guidelines

While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not registered any products for use in aircraft cabins due to the absence of evidence supporting the effectiveness of such measures in controlling mosquito-borne diseases, it underscores the necessity of adhering to approved methods for cargo areas. Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against the use of insecticide inside commercial aircraft cabins, pointing out that an infected person remains the most common source for imported mosquito-borne viruses.

Aircraft Disinsection Methods

The World Health Organization and ICAO stipulate two primary approaches for aircraft disinsection:

1. Aerosolized Insecticide Application: This method involves spraying the aircraft cabin with an aerosolized insecticide while passengers are on board, albeit with potential discomfort for some individuals.
2. Residual Method: Treating the aircraft's interior surfaces with a residual insecticide while passengers are not on board offers an alternative that minimizes exposure to passengers.

It's crucial for operators to consult with their travel or airline reservations agents to confirm the disinsection policies of their destination countries, as requirements vary.

Implementing Effective Disinsection Strategies

To navigate these regulatory waters and safeguard public health, aircraft operators should:

• Stay Informed: Regularly update themselves on the changing policies and requirements for disinsection from international health and aviation organizations.
• Choose Approved Methods: Use only approved disinsection methods that comply with international guidelines and the laws of the destination country.
• Educate Crew and Passengers: Provide information on the purpose and procedures of disinsection to minimize concerns and promote compliance.

Additional Resources:

https://www.epa.gov/mosquitocontrol/aircraft-disinsection

https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/spray

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information

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