Consultation to review WHO methods and procedures for aircraft disinsection

A WHO meeting in 2018 recommended development of guidance on the methods and operating procedures for aircraft disinsection. The requirements of the IHR (2005) include several provisions for vector control measures, including disinsection relating to aircraft and other conveyances, as well as measures to maintain airports free from sources of infection. Currently four methods have been recommended for aircraft disinsection i.e. 1) Pre-flight; 2) Blocks away; 3) Top-of-descent; and 4) Residual treatment. In 2016 during the Zika emergency, pre-embarkation disinsection was also recommended as an additional WHO method. In view of the urgent need to develop WHO methods and operating procedures for aircraft disinsection, WHO/NTD has drafted the operational guidance document by engaging an expert consultant. The draft document is currently under peer review and will be reviewed and finalized in the proposed expert consultation, which will have open sessions with participation of industry and airline associations followed a closed session restricted to invited experts.