NEHA Vector Control and Pest Management

Question 1

In public health, what is a 'vector' in the context of disease transmission?

Accepted Answer

An organism that transmits a pathogen from one host to another

Answer

A vector is a living organism, typically an arthropod such as a mosquito or tick, that transmits a pathogen between infected and uninfected hosts.

Question 2

Which mosquito genus is the primary vector for West Nile virus in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Culex

Answer

Culex mosquitoes, particularly Culex pipiens and Culex quinquefasciatus, are the primary vectors responsible for transmitting West Nile virus in the United States.

Question 3

What Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principle should be applied first before considering pesticide application?

Accepted Answer

Identify the pest and use non-chemical prevention and control methods first

Answer

IPM principles prioritize accurate pest identification followed by non-chemical strategies such as sanitation, exclusion, and habitat modification before resorting to pesticide application.

Question 4

Which disease is transmitted by Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick) in the northeastern United States?

Accepted Answer

Lyme disease

Answer

Ixodes scapularis, commonly called the deer tick or black-legged tick, is the primary vector of Lyme disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi in the northeastern US.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of source reduction in mosquito control programs?

Accepted Answer

To eliminate or modify breeding habitats to prevent mosquito larval development

Answer

Source reduction targets mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water, draining containers, or modifying drainage to prevent larval development before adult mosquitoes emerge.

NEHA - National Environmental Health Association Practice Test

NEHA - National Environmental Health Association Practice Test

NEHA Vector Control and Pest Management