What vector control measures should deployed personnel implement?

• A. Use insect repellent (DEET) only
• B. Wear permethrin-treated clothing and use DEET, and minimize standing water
• C. Minimize standing water only
• D. Rely on vaccines

Answer: (B)

An integrated vector-protection approach combines personal protection with environmental management to reduce mosquito bites and disease risk. Using DEET on exposed skin deters mosquitoes, while permethrin-treated clothing provides ongoing protection and can kill or repel mosquitoes on contact, extending protection even when skin coverage isn’t perfect. Minimizing standing water reduces mosquito breeding sites, lowering the local vector population and the chance of bites. In deployed settings, vaccines aren’t a practical shield against these vector-borne threats, so pairing chemical protection with habitat reduction offers the most comprehensive protection.