title: Vector Databank in the Indian Armed Forces.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Medical intelligence of disease vectors deals with understanding vector distribution and control.
  
  
  METHODS
  An entomological baseline survey using standard vector sampling techniques was done as a pilot study to map the vectors of defence importance in two cantonments of Pune with a view to establish a vector databank and impart training to armed forces personnel in vector surveillance.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The project trained 142 armed forces personnel in surveillance techniques in three years. Seventeen species of mosquitoes comprising of eight vector species were collected. Three other vectors viz. Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Xenopsylla cheopis and Leptotrombidium deliense are reported.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The study emphasizes the need for vector mapping /surveillance in each area for preventing morbidity and mortality amongst troops. It also focuses on indigenous fabrication of vector sampling tools and training of personnel for capacity building which in turn will enable such surveys to be undertaken in other units and deployment areas.
authors.affiliation: Scientist 'E', Dept of Community Medicine, AFMC, Pune-40.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Tilak
authors.affiliation: Professor, Dept of PSM, DY Patil Medical College, Pimpri, Pune.
authors.forename: K K
authors.initials: KK
authors.lastname: Dutta Gupta
authors.affiliation: Director, Armed Forces Medical Services (Health), O/o DGAFMS, DHQ PO New Delhi -110 011.
authors.forename: A K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Verma
keywords: Leptotrombidium; Mosquitoes, Rhipicephalus; Surveillance; Xenopsylla