Assessment of Mosquito Prevalence and Development of Integrated Control Strategies in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Mosquito-borne diseases remain a major public health challenge in urban Nigeria, particularly in rapidly expanding cities with poor environmental sanitation and inadequate drainage infrastructure. This study assessed mosquito prevalence and developed integrated control strategies in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria. The study period spans from December 2025 to April 2026. Preliminary findings indicate marked variations in mosquito abundance across planned and unplanned settlements within the metropolis. Unplanned settlements recorded substantially higher mosquito densities due to poor waste disposal practices, blocked drainage channels, stagnant water accumulation and overcrowded housing conditions. Three major mosquito genera were identified, namely Culex, Anopheles and Aedes, with Culex quinquefasciatus constituting the dominant species. Major breeding habitats included blocked drains, discarded tyres, construction pits and domestic water storage containers. Mosquito abundance showed clear seasonal variation, increasing during periods of rainfall and declining during the dry season. Community assessment revealed moderate awareness of malaria transmission but poor knowledge of other mosquito-borne diseases and inadequate environmental management practices. A positive association was observed between mosquito abundance and reported malaria incidence in health facilities. The study highlights the importance of integrated vector management involving environmental sanitation, drainage improvement, larval source reduction, public health education and community participation. Strengthening surveillance systems and promoting sustainable urban sanitation policies are essential for reducing mosquito proliferation and disease transmission in Kaduna metropolis.