The guidelines consider this continent’s experiences and are evidence-based at the highest scientific level. PAHO/WHO presents this second edition to countries and territories of the Americas at a time when other arboviral diseases (chikungunya and Zika) have been introduced into the Region.

The purpose of this document is to standardize the development of specifications for major equipment used to apply pesticides for control of vectors. The specification guidelines provided herein are also intended to assist national authorities in selecting equipment of assured quality used to apply pesticides for vector control activities.

Pesticide procurement is a highly specialized and complex subject. Expertise is required to ensure that appropriate high-quality pesticide products are procured rapidly, effi ciently, economically and in a fair and transparent manner. It also requires the existence of national policies and guidelines, with clear and transparent procedures supported by appropriate legal provisions and controls.

This is the sixth edition of a guide to the use of chemical methods for control of vectors and pests of public health importance. It provides staff involved in operational vector control programmes with practical information on the safe and effective use of pesticides as well as information on the use of chemicals for individual and household protection from insect and rodent pests.

This guide provides information on how to control flying insect pests and vectors of diseases by applying insecticides as space treatments. Space treatments are usually designed to provide a rapid knock-down and mortality with little or no residual effect. Such treatments must be considered in conjunction with other control methods as part of an integrated vector management programme. Space spraying provides a rapid method of control in emergency or epidemic situations and may be used for seasonal control of flying insect pests or vectors.