Introduction
Vector-borne diseases remain one of the major global public health concerns, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO), recognizing the challenge, launched the Global Vector Control Response (GVCR) 2017–2030 to promote sustainable control and integrated management strategies. China’s implementation of this framework through the Four Pest-Free Village model marks a significant innovation in vector control by applying the One Health (OH) approach. By targeting the eradication of four common vectors—flies, mosquitoes, rodents, and cockroaches—through environmentally friendly methods and community participation, China integrates public health, veterinary care, and environmental protection to reduce disease transmission. Zhejiang Province, as a leading example, has demonstrated reduced disease incidence, improved wetland ecosystems, and lowered financial pressure on public health infrastructure. This integrated response holds promise for future vector control research and policy replication in other endemic regions.
The One Health Framework in Vector Control
The One Health concept promotes a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health. In the context of vector-borne disease control, this model offers a transformative platform by enabling interventions that simultaneously target health determinants across sectors. The Four Pest-Free Village initiative in China represents a successful embodiment of this approach. It not only addresses direct disease transmission risks from vectors but also facilitates ecological restoration and improved hygiene practices in rural areas. This integrated method underscores the importance of cross-sector partnerships between public health authorities, agricultural agencies, environmental scientists, and local communities to create sustainable and scalable disease prevention models.
Global Vector Control Response (GVCR) and Its Implementation
The GVCR 2017–2030 by WHO provides a global strategic framework to strengthen vector control capacity worldwide. Its pillars include increased intersectoral action, community engagement, evidence-based decisions, and capacity development. China's Four Pest-Free Village initiative aligns well with these pillars, effectively translating policy into action. The program's success in Zhejiang Province offers practical evidence supporting the GVCR’s core strategies. Research focusing on how such localized programs align with global policy can inform adaptations in different geographical and epidemiological contexts. Moreover, it provides a foundation for evaluating the scalability and sustainability of integrated vector management (IVM) strategies in other countries.
Eco-Friendly Approaches and Rural Transformation
A notable aspect of the Four Pest-Free Village strategy is its emphasis on environmentally friendly pest control solutions. Instead of relying solely on chemical interventions, the program promotes biological control methods, community sanitation, and habitat management. This transition contributes to rural transformation by improving public spaces, increasing biodiversity, and expanding wetlands—natural barriers to vector proliferation. Such ecological co-benefits create a feedback loop where health outcomes improve alongside environmental quality. Research into these synergies can support the development of environmentally sustainable public health interventions and offer models for climate-resilient disease control programs.
Community Participation and Multi-sector Engagement
Community engagement is central to the success of integrated vector control. In Zhejiang Province, local residents participated in pest eradication activities, waste management, and awareness campaigns. Their involvement ensured long-term program sustainability and cultural relevance. Additionally, coordination between health departments, agricultural bureaus, and environmental agencies created a multi-sectoral governance model. Future research should focus on the dynamics of community mobilization, incentive structures, and inter-agency collaboration to derive insights on enhancing participation, improving compliance, and achieving scalable results in other settings.
Economic Impact and Policy Implications
The Four Pest-Free Village model not only addresses health risks but also reduces the economic burden of vector-borne diseases. By lowering disease incidence, the program minimizes healthcare costs, reduces productivity losses, and lessens the demand for national subsidies for disease outbreaks. Zhejiang Province's implementation has proven cost-effective by integrating health promotion with rural development. Research evaluating the economic returns of such interventions can aid policymakers in justifying investments in preventive infrastructure. Economic modeling of vector control programs under the One Health lens can further influence global and national disease control budgets and priorities.
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