All of the following methods are anti-larval measures, except -

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

The question asks to identify the method that is NOT an anti-larval measure.
Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide primarily used as an adulticide to kill adult mosquitoes through residual spraying and fogging.
While it can have some larvicidal properties, its main application in public health is for controlling adult mosquito populations.
Therefore, it is the exception among the given options, which are all dedicated anti-larval measures.

Option A: Intermittent irrigation is a well-established environmental method for controlling mosquito larvae. It works by disrupting their aquatic habitat.
Option B: Paris green is a classic chemical larvicide. It acts as a stomach poison specifically for mosquito larvae.
Option C: Gambusia affinis, or the mosquitofish, is a primary example of biological control, used specifically to predate on and eliminate mosquito larvae.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of mosquito control measures (anti-larval vs. anti-adult) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the different types of mosquito control is crucial for community health nurses in preventing vector-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis.
Nurses play a key role in health education, teaching communities about source reduction (e.g., removing stagnant water) and supporting public health campaigns involving spraying or fogging.
A nurse's advice can empower communities to take preventive measures, reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question stem, which is 'anti-larval measures'.
Note the keyword 'except'. This means you are looking for the option that does NOT fit the category of an anti-larval measure.
Evaluate each option one by one against the definition of an anti-larval measure.
Option A, Intermittent irrigation, disrupts the water where larvae live. This is anti-larval.
Option B, Paris green, is a chemical that poisons larvae. This is anti-larval.
Option C, Gambusia affinis, is a fish that eats larvae. This is anti-larval.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification of mosquito control measures (anti-larval vs. anti-adult).
Stem keywords: anti-larval measures, mosquito control
Lead-in keywords: except
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks for the option that is an exception.

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 88-90

Practise the full UPPSC 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.