Intrasetorial Collaboration to Address Exogenous Intoxications Caused by Biological Larvicide in Bahia, Brazil
1
Health Surveillance Superintendence (SUVISA), Southwest Regional Health Center (NRS-SO), Bahia State Health Department (SESAB), Guanambi, Brazil
2
Municipal Sanitary Surveillance, Municipal Health Department, Guanambi, Brazil
3
Languages and Literature, UniCesumar University, Guanambi, Brazil
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A3789
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Exogenous intoxications related to the use of biological larvicides have raised public health concerns in several regions of Brazil. In Bahia, Brazil, the increase in reported cases in 2023 highlighted the need for coordinated action among health sectors. This experience describes the integration between Epidemiological Surveillance, Environmental Health, Occupational Health and Primary Health Care to prevent and monitor intoxications associated with Vectobac® WG, a biological larvicide based on Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti).
METHODS:
An intrasetorial approach was implemented in response to the rising number of notifications. The strategy involved workplace inspections, review of application processes for the larvicide, improvement of case reporting in the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN, in Portuguese), and training of health professionals. Occupational risk assessments were conducted, and recommendations were made for safe product handling and the adequacy of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Collaboration among sectors allowed the development of standardized communication and intervention flows.
RESULTS:
Intrasetorial coordination enabled the identification of exposure routes and the implementation of corrective measures in work environments. Improvements in SINAN reporting enhanced the epidemiological understanding of intoxication cases, contributing to evidence-based decision-making. Strengthened communication among sectors resulted in the publication of Technical Note SUVISA (State Health Surveillance Superintendence) No. 01/2024, providing guidance for municipalities on risk management and follow-up of affected workers.
CONCLUSIONS:
This experience demonstrates that Intrasetorial collaboration is essential for improving surveillance, prevention and management of occupational intoxications. Strengthening data completeness, particularly regarding sociodemographic variables, remains a challenge. The involvement of Primary Health Care was crucial for early symptom identification and appropriate referrals. Continued joint training, enhancement of reporting systems and standardized protocols for occupational intoxication are recommended. Integrated actions, along with proper PPE use and health education for vector control workers, are fundamental for effective chemical risk management.
Exogenous intoxications related to the use of biological larvicides have raised public health concerns in several regions of Brazil. In Bahia, Brazil, the increase in reported cases in 2023 highlighted the need for coordinated action among health sectors. This experience describes the integration between Epidemiological Surveillance, Environmental Health, Occupational Health and Primary Health Care to prevent and monitor intoxications associated with Vectobac® WG, a biological larvicide based on Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti).
METHODS:
An intrasetorial approach was implemented in response to the rising number of notifications. The strategy involved workplace inspections, review of application processes for the larvicide, improvement of case reporting in the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN, in Portuguese), and training of health professionals. Occupational risk assessments were conducted, and recommendations were made for safe product handling and the adequacy of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Collaboration among sectors allowed the development of standardized communication and intervention flows.
RESULTS:
Intrasetorial coordination enabled the identification of exposure routes and the implementation of corrective measures in work environments. Improvements in SINAN reporting enhanced the epidemiological understanding of intoxication cases, contributing to evidence-based decision-making. Strengthened communication among sectors resulted in the publication of Technical Note SUVISA (State Health Surveillance Superintendence) No. 01/2024, providing guidance for municipalities on risk management and follow-up of affected workers.
CONCLUSIONS:
This experience demonstrates that Intrasetorial collaboration is essential for improving surveillance, prevention and management of occupational intoxications. Strengthening data completeness, particularly regarding sociodemographic variables, remains a challenge. The involvement of Primary Health Care was crucial for early symptom identification and appropriate referrals. Continued joint training, enhancement of reporting systems and standardized protocols for occupational intoxication are recommended. Integrated actions, along with proper PPE use and health education for vector control workers, are fundamental for effective chemical risk management.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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