Abstract
Over the past 10 years, arboviral diseases like dengue, Zika, chikungunya and yellow fever, have (re)emerged presenting heightened prevalence and severity. In the absence of effective vaccines and treatments, preventing these diseases at the global scale continues to depend largely on controlling mosquito vector populations, and interrupting human–vector contact or both. However, recent outbreaks worldwide underscore the inadequacies of current vector control measures in preventing epidemics and reducing disease incidence. Novel, cost-effective, scalable vector control measures and community-based interventions are urgently needed to prevent the introduction, spread and establishment of Aedes-borne diseases.Addressing this pressing need, the INOVEC project, funded by the European Commission (MSCA Staff Exchanges 2023-2026), aims to develop, optimize and promote integrated approaches and innovative tools and technologies for the surveillance and control of mosquito vectors of emerging arbovirus diseases. Structured around five interconnected work packages and 18 tasks, the INOVEC project is led by 26 partners from academia and the private sector. This collaborative framework promotes cross-sectoral and international synergy in vector-oriented research, social sciences, and product development, thereby maximizing its impact on both scientific advancement and societal well-being. Moreover, INOVEC endeavors to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technologies to regions facing escalating risks of arboviral diseases. In its inaugural year, through implementation of secondments, the INOVEC project made a significant contribution to research and innovation in the field of vector control through the organization of workshops and conferences, the dissemination of scientific findings, and the facilitation of knowledge transfer and career development opportunities.Looking ahead, INOVEC will contribute to international efforts to improve global health and human welfare by reducing the burden of vector borne diseases.