Auditing preparedness for vector control field studies
File(s)
OA Location
Author(s)
Collins, C Matilda Tilly
Quinlan, M Megan
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
The value of baseline entomological data to any future area-wide release campaign relies on the application of consistent methods to produce results comparable across different times and places in a stepwise progression to larger releases. Traditionally, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and operational plans support this consistency and, thus, the validity of emergent data. When release plans include transgenic mosquitoes for vector control or other novel beneficial insects, additional factors come into play such as biosafety permits, stakeholder acceptance, and ethics approval, which require even greater coordination and thoroughness. An audit approach was developed to verify the correct use of SOPs and appropriate performance of tasks during mosquito mark, release, recapture (MRR) studies. Audit questions matched SOPs, permit terms and conditions, and other key criteria, and can be used to support subsequent “spot check” verification by field teams. An external team of auditors, however, was found to be effective for initial checks in this example before the use of a transgenic strain of laboratory mosquitoes. We recommend similar approaches for field studies using release of novel beneficial insects, to ensure useful and valid data as an outcome and to support confidence in the rigor of the step-wise process.
Date Issued
2020-04
Date Acceptance
2019-12-09
Citation
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2020, 102 (4), pp.707-710
ISSN
0002-9637
Publisher
American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Start Page
707
End Page
710
Journal / Book Title
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Volume
102
Issue
4
Copyright Statement
© 2020 The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Identifier
http://www.ajtmh.org/content/journals/10.4269/ajtmh.19-0710
Subjects
11 Medical and Health Sciences
Tropical Medicine
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2020-01-27