Averting ‘Albo-Geddon’: Challenges to Metro South Health Emergency Response to Invasive Mosquito Detections in a Complex Stakeholder Environment

Abstract

Introduction:

Invasive mosquito species present significant organizational and health risks of covert disease outbreaks (dengue, Zika, or chikungunya) following an incursion into novel geographies. In Australia, detections at international First Points of Entry will trigger a multi-agency response to prevent escape into nearby urban environments that are largely unmonitored. Brisbane’s mosquito surveillance and response systems were challenged in 2017-2018 by the unprecedented frequency of detections in imported oversized tires that stretched the biosecurity response with escape opportunities.

Aim:

Describe the unique challenges to Metro South Public Health Unit within a complex stakeholder environment represented by federal, state, and municipal agencies.

Methods:

We present as a case study of an invasive mosquito detection that escalated to a public health incident of statewide significance through an incident management team structure. We focus on describing the significant governance and logistic challenges to the emergency mobilization of Metro South Health staff.

Results:

Since mid-December 2017 biosecurity have reported 12 detections of invasive mosquito species (Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus, Ae. japonicus) in infested tires arriving in Brisbane. Each emergency response was successful due to amendments to operational protocols and policy review. The legacy is a permanent enhancement of local mosquito monitoring, improved response systems, and greater operational preparedness.

Discussion:

The organizational impact of invasive mosquitoes is likely to be underestimated and under-resourced in jurisdictions beyond their expected distributions. Our experiences demonstrate the value of a clear and shared understanding of interagency emergency frameworks to effectively integrate each response. Resolution of uncertainties around organizational roles and responsibilities, and interpretations of guidelines, implementation strategies for mosquito surveillance, and control in novel contexts will require organizational agility and robust partnerships. Strategic re-focus is recommended to embed robust preventative measures and review of policy to mitigate the risk and impact of emergency responses to future invasive mosquito detections.