Controlling Biting-Insect Populations

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Angola
Delegate Name: Noor Sohail
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

There are a multitude of diseases that are caused by the biting-insect population. Of which, malaria and yellow fever have caused numerous deaths in Angola. As we now know, malaria and yellow fever are transmitted through zoonosis, specifically through mosquitoes. In Angola, while UNICEF has administered much aid and reduced the number of casualties, it still remains as one of the leading cause of death. Africa is the perfect breeding ground for these insects, with its tropical climate and multitude of forests.

There are a wide variety of other insects that bite. Generally, when a human is bitten, there are negative consequences. As a result, it is crucial that the population is significantly reduced. This is especially true in Angola, where the citizens are constantly at risk of dying from diseases that stem from insects. The environment is a breeding ground for all of these organisms. In order to reduce the number, increase the population of native predators in order to reduce the population. Of course, such measures should be carefully monitored and researched so as not to introduce any invasive species and thus cause another problem.

While we do need to reduce and, or restrict the population of the biting insects we still do not want to exterminate them completely. Doing so would completely disrupt the environment by causing an interference in the balance of the food web.

The only way to resolve this issue, is if the United Nations bands together along with NGOs in order to restrict the population of biting insects.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Fiona Roth
School: Royal Oak High School

Argentina has made it clear that we are insistent on stopping diseases carried by biting insects, most of all malaria. We have initiated WHO certification process for the elimination of autochthonous malaria transmission, this has been so sucesssful tht we have confined diseases such as Malaria, Chagas, and Yellow Fever to provinces of Corrientes and Misiones. In Argentina the risk of malaria is very low, but in 91 countries, malaria is an epidemic, over one million people die from this terrible disease each year worldwide. Our goal is to educate other countries of this growing problem so we can put a stop to it.

How can we educate people about protecting the biting insect population? What methods can we use to prevent diseases such as malaria? The World Health Organization is already working with partners in order educate people on how to protect their communities as well as themselves against biting insects and the diseases they carry. Argentina wants to address countries as a whole. Malaria doesn't happen everywhere, but we encourage countries, even if biting insects aren't their main issue, to support organizations that address this topic. One way to stop these diseases is by improving healthcare in countries. A good resolution will find the means to fund such organizations and help countries who don't have assess to good healthcare.

We look forward to discussing other ways to educate people about malaria as well as what can do medically and economically in order to prevent infection in result of the biting insect population.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Benin
Delegate Name: Allie Pail
School: Williamston High School

Diseases transmitted by vectors, living organisms that can transmit infectious diseases from animals to humans or between humans, are very difficult to control even with modern technology. Vector-borne diseases cause more than 1 million deaths annually and malaria alone is the source of 600,000 deaths every year around the globe. This issue is mostly prevalent in underdeveloped regions and countries, especially in African nations, but diseases can be carried to more developed countries by travellers who did not take proper precautions against vector-borne diseases.

The Republic of Benin is greatly affected by vector-borne diseases; malaria, yellow fever, plague, typhus, and chikungunya are just a few of the diseases prevalent in Benin and most of Western Africa. In Benin, 28% of children under the age of five years tested positive for malaria from 2011 to 2012. The WHO also estimated that 2.4 million people, almost 1.3 of them children, needed preventive chemotherapy every year for schistosomiasis. To help prevent the spread of diseases to other nations, Benin does require a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate in order to travel in or out of its borders, but without help from other nations there is very little Benin can do with its own funds. To solve this the Republic of Benin, with Angola and Ethiopia, has partnered with USAID’s HFG Project to strengthen its health systems and increase its citizens’ access to healthcare, and this measure has helped Benin greatly. HFG is supporting Benin’s Ministry of Health to execute its third National Health Accounts (NHA), which will give necessary information for health system planning and budgeting. This project is also helping to sponsor community-based health insurance programs (CBHI), allowing more access to healthcare in rural areas; this insurance pools the payments of members into a collective fund (the fund is managed by the members) and covers the costs of basic health care in the community for a sick member.

The Republic of Benin would look favorably upon implementing programs similar to the third NHA in underdeveloped nations, like Benin, because of the immediate health care it would provide to people who are affected by vector-borne diseases. To make this plan affordable for all levels of income, Benin would like to create different classes of this system based on a range in income. Also, Benin suggests the creation of a league of countries in which vaccinations for all worrying diseases are required for travel, in order to provide safe travel throughout the globe. If something of this nature was implemented, travel safety from harmful diseases would improve as all people would be vaccinated and provided with information to help prevent diseases when they receive vaccinations. The Republic of Benin does not see this as an issue for each individual nation to address on its own, but rather a world issue that requires global cooperation.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Bolivia
Delegate Name: Adam Damato
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Currently there is very little being done for controlling biting insects. Many of the diseases spread by biting insects cause thousands of deaths every year worldwide. Although vaccinations make a huge difference and will likely always be needed for traveling to countries such as mine, we would like the risk to be decreased past vaccinations. With primary biting insect being mosquitos we think that they should be eradicated.

Although this sounds impossible, and expensive, an interesting method that has been brought to our attention. This method includes genetically breeding a kind of mosquito that will breed regularly with other mosquitos. However, the offspring of the males produce females that are unable to lay eggs. Over time the regular mosquito females are replaced by the genetically bred variant. Then, when there are no longer regular mosquito females they can no longer breed and all of the remaining mosquitos die off. This could possibly be targeted but there would be concern of the new mosquitos spreading beyond the targeted area.

However, this would be a highly controversial decision. Many countries would be likely to vote against something like this and so would many environmental associations. Further research would have to be done in reference to the impact on the ecosystems with a large mosquito population. We do not want this to be overlooked, and we would appreciate it if people are prepared with their position on this topic when discussing biting insects. This could potentially save thousands of innocent lives every year around the world without costing a fortune.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Jonathon Ribbens
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

As the country with 60%of the world's largest rain forest we have the privilege being the home of the largest population of biting insects. it is estimated that we contain over 50,000 different species of insects in single hectare (2.47 acres) and it is estimated that there are closer to 15000000 different species in our forest. many of these are biting insects. As you can see this is one of the top problems my country has. the bugs can spread diseases such as malaria, West Nile virus, elephantiasis, dengue fever, yellow fever, rapidly creating small epidemics in small towns and villages. this terrible problem also affects our tourism industry during the summer and spring seasons the bugs are more active causing tourists to be scared away from our country impacting our economy.

A couple of solutions to this epidemic can include using oxitec. the company has genetically engineered male insects that mate with females how ever the offspring of the genetically modified insects will die before they reach their adulthood reducing the insect population dramatically maybe even wiping out the certain populations in some places. Another solution is wiring bug lamps all around cities and high insect population areas this will be more costly however it does take away from the threat of completely wiping out insects necessary to the environment. All in all this is a serious problem to my country it threatens or people and the future people of Brazil and needs to be solved as soon a possible.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Burkina Faso
Delegate Name: Heather Rose
School: Royal Oak High School

The decision made on controlling biting-insect populations will have a large effect on my country, Burkina Faso, as well as every country that’s threatened by vectors. My country similar to other nations in the African region is suffering from outbreaks of malaria as well as yellow fever. Risks for receiving both of these diseases stemming from vectors are very high. Sub-Saharan Africa has the burden of this disease. It is home to 89% of malaria cases and 91% of malaria deaths. For these reasons a large priority will centered on preventing these diseases through medical means. However, death rates have declined 60% globally since 2000. We would like to see this significantly grow.

To ensure this continues we must increase the availability and use of insecticide-treated nets where we recommend that they are used by all people in high-risk zones. These work best when communities as a whole participate. To further encourage these steps, Burkina Faso has helped train other neighboring countries on malaria diagnostics and to help monitor the therapeutic efficiency of antimalarial medicines.

Focusing on yellow fever, vaccinations are the best prevention. The vaccine has been tested and is safe, affordable and effective. UNICEF distributes these vaccines among Central and East African countries as well as Latin America. We would like to see an expansion of this program including immunizations of other diseases caused by vectors as well.

If these diseases are handled, then mosquitoes will not have the same effect in general since a large portion of the problem will be solved. If the mosquitoes don't have the same effect, than the problem of controlling their populations, no longer will be a problem.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: China
Delegate Name: Gabrielle Dykema
School: Forest Hills Central High School

While vector-spread illness is not a common problem in China, the recent climate change has bred more of a problem than we have faced in a long time. Major parasites causing malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis have found their way into China and are spreading rapidly. Last summer, southern China’s Guangdong Province faced its worst Dengue Fever outbreak in two decades. In combatting the growing incidence of these pests, we have strengthened our current surveillance and monitoring systems, spread public awareness, and general combatting methods, including but not limited to checking for ticks, bed nets, and insecticides or other repellents.

The Chinese Ministry of Health has strengthened the Law and Regulations on Infectious Disease Reporting in an effort to survey and prevent any future outbreaks from occurring. In response to the Dengue Outbreak, China has built the world’s largest mosquito factory in response to dengue fever by releasing one million sterilised mosquitoes every week in a bid to dilute the population with insects that do not carry dengue. By releasing a larger population of these genetically modified mosquitos every week, the population of infected mosquitoes is slowly reduced. This has has been proven to reduce population by 90% in a method that will not harm other organisms and prevent future cases from occurring.

China is hoping that its research will go beyond just vectors that plague China and other Asian countries, and that their work diluting infected populations and discovering cures to help fight illness or disease caused by them will help as well. Bug nets and medicine to counter illness and disease need to be funded and spread to countries that are the most affected, including but not limited to Africa and the Middle East. We believe in the care of countries that are not able to defend themselves against biting-insect populations, and hope that the research and funding that China provides will aid in fighting this problem.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Lindsey Hart
School: Mattawan High School

Accounting of 17% of all infectious diseases, vector-borne illness greatly affects numerous countries across the globe. Millions of people die each year from these types of diseases, ranging from young children to elderly adults. Combating this problem is incredibly important in the development and welfare of all countries. Basic protective measures, such as bed nets, to combat vector-borne are often cheap and useful, but often ineffective during the waking hours. Measures for the waking hours need to be taken into consideration. The welfare of the citizens is at risk until this problem is solved, and millions will continue dying in the process. Assuring that the elimination of these insects doesn’t occur needs to be taken into consideration as well, especially if they are vital for agricultural means.

Colombia is greatly affected by vector-borne illness; more recently, they have undergone problems with yellow fever, leishmaniasis, dengue fever, chagas disease, and chikungunya. These diseases have caused problems throughout the country, and they are looking for a way to combat it. While Colombia wishes to have solution to the vector-borne illnesses, they are weary of completely eliminating them. Agriculture plays a large role in Colombia’s economy, and it would be detrimental for the economy if the agriculture sector was harmed by this. Colombia hopes to find a solution that increases protection for the citizens without causing harm to agriculture, while trying to increase training and awareness about the vector-borne illnesses.

Colombia suggests an increase in citizen protection against vector-borne illnesses and making these measures accessible to everyone to best fight the problem. This has grown to a global problem, rather than an individual country problem. Diseases can easily spread across country lines, infecting those who need the protection. Countries need to readily have protective measures available to the masses. Colombia looks forward to working with any country who has similar struggles with vector-borne illnesses, or those willing to help make advances in solving the issue at hand.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Thomas Barfuss
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Every day in The Republic of the Congo children die from diseases that could have been prevented. The most notorious of all these, malaria. Transmitted through the bite of a mosquito, malaria is a large killer in most central African countries. There must be better ways to prevent these diseases than those being used now. Bug nets are currently the most widely used tool against mosquitoes . For the death rate to go down there needs to be a more complex solution that attacks the root of the problem itself.

mosquitoes could theoretically be killed in their entirety and not cause an environmental collapse. This is all based on observation and scientific studies. But actually removing all of these insects is not a choice for humans to make. As a species we do not have the right to say whether another species should become extinct or not. The best solution to the problem of the mosquitoes themselves is a newly researched genetically modified mosquito. These would be aggressive male mosquitoes that would be able to control the population by creating competition and killing off mosquitoes . This is not an entire solution to the problem, but it will help lower the mosquito population as a whole.

While controlling mosquito populations is important, containing other biting insects should be addressed. Right now the distribution and use of Insecticide Treated Nets has been the most effective way of keeping people safe from these insects. Though these are important and should be attended to, the main focus should be on controlling the mosquitoes and the spread of malaria.

Congo is a country that is greatly affected by these insects. With high infant mortality rates, malaria is one of the highest killers of newborn and young children. Congo believes that the ultimate solution to this problem not only lies in controlling the population of mosquitoes but also in making sure all people have access to bug nets and other resources to help protect themselves.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Croatia
Delegate Name: Katelyn Brusach
School: Mattawan High School

Obviously, vector-borne diseases greatly affect the entire global community. Mosquitos, ticks, and fleas, present in every country, play the role of spreading diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus. These biting insects have an astounding affect on our global health. We cannot continue to allow these pesky critters to continue to impact us so profoundly. We must do our best to eliminate these diseases within our countries. Also, willing and able countries must assist in eliminating vector-borne diseases on a global level.

Croatia has dealt with vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, Japanese Encephalitis, African Trypanosomiasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, Rift Valley fever, and multiple other vector-borne diseases. Though Croatia may not be as affected by these diseases in comparison to, for example, countries which lack clean water, screen windows, or access to education on vector-borne diseases, Croatia still acknowledges the significance of vector-borne diseases and their affects.

Croatia believes we need to put more research into finding easy ways to eliminate vector-borne diseases. Furthermore, we need to establish better ways to more effectively prevent these diseases, and more accessible ways to treat these diseases. As a small country who is not greatly affected by these diseases, Croatia believes this research should be funded by countries that have the money and resources to do so. Moreover, these countries who invest in this research should be encouraged to share their findings with organizations such as the WHO, and ultimately, help distribute treatments and execute preventative measures.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Delegate Name: Pooja Patel
School: Grand Blanc High School

Controlling biting insect populations is an issue that the whole world can relate to, on many different levels. These insects do not respect country boundaries. They affect not only humans but also wildlife. Therefore, in order to maintain a stable population, something must be done to control these populations in order to prevent future breakouts. Malaria is the most widely known disease spread by an insect, but onchocerciasis has widely plagued not only the Democratic Republic of Congo, but all of Africa. It is caused by small black flies that inject themselves into skin, causing worms to reproduce in the body. This causes many skin diseases and constant discomfort. Other diseases as a result of vectors include lymphatic filariasis and yellow fever. Many organizations have been formed through resolutions made by the World Health Organization, such as APOC and GPELF, whose goals are to eliminate these diseases. However, these initiatives are not doing enough because they are not attacking the problem at its core. Therefore, when biting insects such as the black fly cross the border between Uganda and the Congo, it is more problematic.

The Congo does not have the resources to provide protection for itself, let alone other neighboring countries, but it participates in the efforts of other organizations in prevention and treatments plans. We use mosquito nets that are distributed, and take advantage of the medications that are given to use by health organizations. However, this is not enough. The majority of the population is still unreached by any help.

Many of these infectious diseases are a direct result of lack of sanitary water facilities.

Therefore, Congo would like to see aid to developing countries that will provide a better standard of life, which includes financial aid as well as programs that will educate the whole population on protection from these diseases. Congo calls upon a resolution that is focused on taking initiatives to better educate and protect the people rather than completely eliminating the insects, because these insects are an integral part of the environment. Permanent programs need to be set up to provide aid to all parts of the Congo, not just the easily accessible areas. Narrowing this disparity will undoubtedly better the quality of life in developing countries, which is the ultimate goal.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Kristin Gustavson
School: Vicksburg High School

The most common illnesses spread around by biting-insect populations in Denmark are tick borne-infections, especially Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Lyme disease can be cured, but if it is not caught early, then it can lead to serious complications. Tick-borne encephalitis, or TBE, is extremely dangerous and does not have a cure. Denmark has teamed up with Sweden and Norway to effectively manage this problem in Project ScandTick. Specific aims of Project ScandTick are increasing and spreading knowledge, creating a network of medical officials, and developing guidelines and research. We believe that continuing the spreading of awareness, education, and research over these diseases to help combat this prevalent problem will reduce this disease.

Denmark understands that a common vector-borne disease, especially in African countries, is malaria, but fortunately, Denmark has zero malaria-related deaths. We have still been researching for a cure to help other countries with this problem, even though it isn’t necessarily relevant in our country. Establishing hospitals in these countries is extremely important, but so is spreading awareness and knowledge about malaria. Malaria can be prevented with something as easy to use as a mosquito net. Supplying these countries with mosquito nets could help reduce malaria-related deaths. While the vaccine for malaria isn’t always effective, it could still help to a certain extent. A supply of bug spray would help defend against mosquitos. Doctors Without Borders would be able to supply these countries with these materials, as well as educators willing to spread awareness and knowledge.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Faizan Mohammed
School: Grand Blanc High School

Out of the many infectious diseases that exist today, vector borne diseases, those transmitted through insect bites, are responsible for nearly one-fifth of the resulting deaths. Furthermore, it is imperative to understand that there are over one billion cases of these diseases annually, with at least one million subsequent deaths. And as environmental factors such as weather and climate, continue to change, consequences such as global warming will intensify, increasing the temperature of the planet, disease-carrying mosquitoes will gain more land to inhabit. It is for these reasons that this committee needs to act.

Of the approximately 15,000 species known to live in Egypt, more than 10,000 of which are insects. This leaves the Egyptian population vulnerable to several diseases that can be transmitted through insect bites, including malaria, yellow fever, and even the plague. Malaria is responsible for over half a million deaths annually, most of which are children under five years of age- what is likely a major contributor in our child and infant mortality rates. In 2014, Egypt reported an outbreak of Malaria, with 19 confirmed cases. Prior to that, however, the last reported case of the disease was seventeen years ago, back in 1998. As of May, 2015, Egypt has claimed that it is Malaria free. Furthermore, the Egyptian government has promised support for programs aimed at improving healthcare and reducing Malaria, including those of the country of Rwanda, whose efforts to combat the disease have been largely successful. Attempts by Egypt to prevent transmission of yellow fever include requiring anyone wishing to enter the country to be vaccinated against the disease.

Healthcare services and supplies are severely limited. We strongly request help from the outside community in increasing health research to find, test, and distribute vaccinations for these diseases. Furthermore, we ask for technical support in order to properly handle any epidemics if and when they occur. The Egyptian government does not want to deny access into the country to tourists, but is ready to implement all necessary precautions to protect safeguard against disease and infections. Assistance in this aspect will protect not only Egyptians, but also prevent any rampant spread of these diseases, thus preserving the human population worldwide.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Estonia
Delegate Name: Destiny Davis
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

There are a handful of biting insects within our country of Estonia such as flies, ticks, fleas and even aquatic snails. The most common case is the mosquito. These insects can and will cause the spread to other numerous diseases such as Malaria, Yellow Fever, Lyme disease, and dengue fever. My country of Estonia has come up with a diverse amount of contributions to help eliminate the biting insect populations. We have found that the best way to reduce the populations is to eliminate places where insects breed. Standing water provides the ideal breeding ground for mosquitos. So, little techniques and duties over time will help control the population of these insects. The techniques are to drain or fill low areas on your property, clean drains, ditches, culverts, etc. to ensure proper drainage. Fill in the hollow stumps that may hold water and replace it with sand or concrete, keep the grass and shrubs on your property well-trimmed. By turning over canoes, small boats and wheelbarrows stored outside, cover them with tap to avoid a biting insect to breed and lay their larvae. Our country of Estonia play a large role in supporting other nations in our regions with the similar outbreak because as humans we know and understand that the approach to the vector-born disease takes time, environmental and also social behaviors in order to stop it. Organizations such as the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and U.N. Environmental Programme (UNEP) are just a few us Estonians contribute too. The reporting systems use within Estonia are that whether we use pesticides to prevent contamination, or eliminating vectors from their food supply, a broad-based approach has to be done. These disease are causing more than 1 million deaths annually and we strive to see a change within this era. Our organizations discuss and take action to our food by treatment plans for fruits, vegetables, and meats. FAO identified key priorities on which is best placed to help and develop. FAO enables inclusive and efficient agricultural food systems because most of the world’s poor live in rural areas. They help eliminate the hunger and malnutrition so that people are not dreaded with eating food leading to diseases. A stakeholder communication should be identified to see the different levels of groups that may be interested in contributing. Some VBD’s, such as malaria, have attracted different countries and regions world-wide in areas where the diseases were found. Therefore, it is just that it is proposed to some level of NGO, nationally or internationally.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: France
Delegate Name: Mika Hill
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

In France, many areas are quickly approaching ideal conditions, which would be hot, humid and below 1500 meters altitude. Vigilance-moustiques is a map that predicts likely outbreaks based on previous seasons. The map has four alert levels: green is nothing to report, yellow is that the weather supports mosquitoes, orange is that there have been reports of outbreaks of bites, and red is that a national health alert is in effect. Other than mosquitoes, the only biting insects that are a problem are Asian hornets (Frelon asiatiques) and Sandflies (Phlebotominae).

Asian hornets, along with typical hornets, give very nasty stings, which can be fatal, and are a predator to bees. At first glance, the first concern would be towards the sometimes fatal stings, but in reality the real concern should be for the bees. Bees are insects that are vital for ecological balance. The other species of insects that is a problem are sandflies. Sandfly is a colloquial name for any species of flying, biting, blood-sucking Dipteran that is found in a sandy area. Sandflies are hosts to the parasite Leishmania, which causes the disease Leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis can be transmitted to both humans and dogs. This disease is the source for an approximated 25,000 deaths annually.

There are two lines of attack that are advised to guard against mosquito bites. The first is by removing any sources of standing or active water in the area adjacent to the bite. Another precaution would to be relieve all vacant land of anything and everything that can hold water. Awnings, gutters, and wheelbarrows included. One can never be too careful in prevention. The second line of attack, is more for those whom are in an infested area and wish to prevent bites. In this case, avoid being outside at dawn or dusk. Wearing thick and long clothing to protect your extremities from the mosquito’s proboscis. While picking these clothes, lighter shades would be preferable because they are not preferred by mosquitoes.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Hannah Ploof
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Although Germany has not personally had a large outbreak of bug related diseases, we are ready to do anything to tackle the problem. There have been studies done that show killing off the species of mosquitoes would do nothing to the ecosystem. This would eliminate any diseases related to them, but there may be after waves that the scientists did not see coming. Because of this, Germany believes we should keep the species around; we as humans cannot decide which animals get to stay on earth and which can all be killed off.

Instead of wiping them out, we should limit the population. There has been research on a genetically modified mosquito that has the capability to kill off other mosquitoes. Only males ones would be modified so humans and other animals will not be affected by it. When they mate, the modifications would not be passed down onto the off-spring. This solution will kill off part of the population but will not destroy it or possibly the ecosystem.

While we are working on solving the root of the problem, we also need to work on the branches. More bug nets should be distributed to underdeveloped countries and health care centers should be stocked with the supplies to counter these diseases. Every climate has a different bug that is attacking them and causing problems so many solutions may be needed, but we should focus on mosquitoes the most due to the outbreaks of malaria.

Germany believes this two prong approach of attacking the root and solving it at the surface is the best way of doing it and will be the most effective.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Anna Baermann
School: East Grand Rapids High School

The issue of biting insects has been negatively affecting the world in many ways. Over a million have died just this year from malaria, a disease carried by biting insects. Most of these victims are under five years old; malaria is a prominent cause of increased infant mortality rates. Although many efforts have been made to solve this issue, the amount of deaths caused by insect related diseases has continued to increase.

The Republic of Ghana has long struggled with infectious diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever. Recently, Ghana conducted a district wide study observing the influence of the use of insecticide-impregnated bednets. These IIBNs protected the people from the bites of mosquitos. However, the use of IIBNs was questioned, as they were costly and highly seasonal. These factors lessen the practicality of insecticide-impregnated bednets. Other

studies have been conducted in search of a solution to the issue of insect carried diseases.

There have been many ideas and suggestions as to how this issue should be approached. Mentioned earlier, insecticide-impregnated beds seemed a valid option until tested thoroughly. Last year, the United Nations issued “World Health Day” on April 7. This would provide a day for nations to raise awareness in their communities, and express the urgent need for recognition of the insects that carry deadly diseases. It has been found that climate changes, advanced transportation systems, and international trade expose more and more people to these diseases every day. Diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever can be found in more than 100 countries, having the potential to affect over 2.5 billion people. The United Nations strongly encourages citizens to get vaccinated, as this may help prevent contagion.

Ghana believes that copious amounts of research be conducted, in all areas of the world, with the purpose of addressing the issue. In addition, The Republic of Ghana believes it would be greatly beneficial to educate all people about the topic of concern, and how it may affect themselves and the rest of the world. Although eradicating vector-borne illnesses may be impossible, Ghana believes there is a way that can significantly decrease the risk of these diseases. Perhaps this way may include the use of photonic fences or improved IIBNs.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Greece
Delegate Name: Jalyn Blakey
School: Roeper School

Greece does not have significant major biting insects that get a lot of attention. But one particular insect that the world is very familiar with would be the Mosquito. This insect is known to be one of the most annoying, blood feasting insects in the world, and can be very dangerous in some circumstances. Like in many naitons, mosquitos in Greece are frowned upon due to the illnesses, diseases, and even death they can cause.

Even though there are a fair amount of mosquitos in Greece, the population is not in danger of contacting malaria, which was eradicated with the assistance of the WHO in the decades after World War II. Today the reason that malaria is not present is because of Greece's prevention tools, the most effective of which is the electric mosquito repellent device. This tool is very sufficient for the people of Greece, combined with medicated lotions, and/or sprays that are used for prevention from being mosquito bitten.

The Asian Tiger Mosquito resides in the mountain areas of Greece. This mosquito is known to carry several types of viruses, for example Eastern squire encephalitis. This affects the human body’s central nervous system, which can cause severe complication and even death. Due to the recent financial crisis in Greece the amount of spending on health and attention to preventative measures is very low. Greece definitely would very much like to change these cuts as a solution. There needs to be more hospitals, doctors, specialists, and pharmacies on these numerous Greek islands for biting insect treatment.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals have recently established these standards for disease prevention: “3.3: By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases.” Biting Insect diseases include malaria, Yellow Fever, Dengue Fever, Chagas Disease, West Nile Virus (all from mosquito bites) and tick-borne diseases such as Lyme Disease.

Prevention and treatment of disease are very important in every nation and all of the world’s communities. Plans need to be set-up if hospitals are not established. A good back up plan for this would be community clinics or health care centers with doctors, nurses or paramedics. Pharmacies also need to be established in these areas as well, so that people can have access to the medication they need to treat infections, and prevent breakouts of insect-born disease. Being able to access these things can prevent many tens of thousands of deaths and lessen the impact of infection greatly. Greece looks forward to working with the members of this WHO committee in order to expand these health measures to benefit people all over the world.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: India
Delegate Name: Lukas Sznewajs
School: Roeper School

The Republic of India feels very strongly that steps need to be taken to decrease the populations of biting insects. The spread of disease through ticks, flies, and mosquitos is a major problem affecting nearly every nation in the world, particularly those in the developing world. According to a study conducted by the University of Toronto in 2013, roughly 205,000 Indian citizens per year die of malaria alone, which is spread through mosquitos. As a result of the deadly impact that insects have on the people of our nation, we feel that actions must be taken to diminish populations of biting insects not just India, but worldwide.

​As our External Affairs Member, Mrs. Sushma Swaraj said to the United Nations General Assembly in New York on October 1, 2015: “I also congratulate the States for their prompt action in tackling the threat of global epidemics. By linking our efforts, we have managed to eradicate smallpox and, nearly, polio. HIV/AIDS has been controlled and more recently, Ebola, though not before an unacceptably high price in lives had been paid. The Ebola crisis is an important example of how national action and international support can resolve a global crisis. We are proud that India played its due part in these efforts. But we must be inspired by our successes and redouble our efforts at eradicating other health crises, whether it be tuberculosis or malaria.” The Republic of India feels the addressing malaria is the next major health crisis that continues to need to be addressed. While malaria was one of the diseases that the MDG’s addressed, we need further action. We propose doing this through the increased use of insecticides and a dramatic increase in the development and affordability of and access to anti-malarial drugs. We feel that this is a worldwide concern, and ask for the assistance of the United Nations and the world community in order to address and solve this deadly and pressing issue.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Ella Schenfke
School: Fishers High School

Indonesia recognizes that there is a biting insect problem within our nation and we are going to drastic measures to reduce these populations and prevent infectious diseases from spreading throughout the country.

Recently there was an outbreak on the urban island Java of the poisonous Rove beetle, commonly referred to as “tomcat” amongst residents. Although the Rove beetle is common in rural areas of Indonesia, an outbreak of such is uncommon. Health centres across the country are doing everything they can to keep this epidemic under control.

Indonesia offers vaccines to its people at local health centers in order to reduce the sickness that comes from these pests, as well as treatment for illness and disease caused by biting insect populations. With the help of WHO, Indonesia has been able to create national control programmes for reducing these biting insect populations.

Biofrost Indonesia, a corporation hired by the Indonesian government has been serving Indonesia in recent years to help with pest control, particularly mosquitos. It has been proven to be almost as efficient as mosquito nets. While Indonesia recognizes the expenses of mosquito netting we strongly suggest that it is important to keep these around the homes of the Indonesian people. Mosquitoes spread infectious diseases such as Malaria, Dengue fever and Yellow fever. All of these can be lethal if left untreated. Government health centeres are doing everything in their power to help these people get the treatment they need to survive.

Malaria is the most common disease spread by mosquitoes in Indonesia. Although there is much to be known about the disease, little is known about the species carrying it. Different species across Indonesia can vary from island to island, and the information about these species varies as well, meaning it could be completely lacking in some areas. Indonesia is doing everything in our power to learn more about these mosquito species and create more aggressive pesticides to reduce the risk of malaria.

Dengue fever is common amongst Indonesia as well and is also transmitted by mosquitoes. Indonesia has been struggling to keep up with the treatment of Dengue fever until recently a new project has been developed by Gadjah Mada University School of Medicine. The initiative is titled Eliminate Dengue Project-Yogya (EDP-Yogya). This is an organic way to prevent Dengue fever from spreading. By breeding the Wolbachia bacteria into these mosquitoes and then releasing them into the wild, we are basically instilling a prevention method into the indonesian people until further research on how to eliminate infectious mosquitoes comes up. EDP-Yogya has been used in 8 different countries that have similar issues with Dengue fever and had been proven to be safe and effective.

Fogging is used as well to help prevent Dengue fever and Malaria. Overall Indonesia is doing their best to decrease the spread of infectious diseases through biting insects.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Allie Ingalls
School: Royal Oak High School

Italy has not had an outbreak of biting insect populations that have harmed the citizens, but we recognize the issues biting insect populations can be for many countries, specifically many African countries. Many diseases such as Yellow fever, malaria, Lyme disease, and many others can be life threatening and it is a serious issue all over the world. With 2.5 billion people at risk for a disease due to biting insects it is a serious issue that needs to be handled properly.

Italy believes that bed nets are certainly a good way to reduce the population of biting insects, but it is not always long lasting and needs to be treated regulation. The delegation of Italy suggests an improvement of vaccinations among countries to stop the disease before you come in contact with it. Italy believes that we should also expand our knowledge on controlling the population of biting insects to take care of the issue without putting our ecosystems in harm's way. Along with expanding our knowledge about controlling the biting insect populations, we should also try to expand our knowledge on treating such diseases.

Italy does not believe in completely eliminating the insects that causes diseases considering some are important for our ecosystems and to completely kill of a species would cause other problems to our world. Italy does believe in helping developing nations with medical help that would not otherwise be available and help distribute bed nets as a way to control, but not eliminate the population. Another solution that should be taken into consideration is Insecticide-Treated nets, they have become the most essential tool to controlling malaria and Italy believes we should look seriously into the distribution of them into both developing and developed nations.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Kazakhstan
Delegate Name: Daniella Asafu-Adjaye
School: Mattawan High School

Vector-borne disease is a huge issue that needs to be addressed globally. Namely, children are the number one victim. Animals, specifically livestock, are a huge factor in the spread of infection. Several people, especially those in rural areas, live in close contact with their animals. Poorly designed irrigation and water systems, inadequate housing, poor waste disposal and water storage, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity are all contributors to this epidemic. While there are a number of vector-borne diseases, there is a prime killer: malaria. Malaria transmission occurs in all six WHO regions. Worldwide, an estimated 3.2 billion people in 97 countries and territories are at risk of being infected with malaria.

Kazakhstan is susceptible to a number of vector-borne diseases. Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, Siberian Tick Typhus, Rickettsialpox, Cutaneous Leishmaniasis are among the list, just to name a few. Malaria was once included, but on 20 March 2012, WHO officially acknowledged Kazakhstan as malaria-free. We have been very effective in preventing infection. Some of our techniques are bathing animals in acaricide (a substance that kills ticks and mites), treating clothing with permethrin, and eliminating vector breeding grounds. Furthermore, in 2008, the CDC established a Global Disease Detection Regional Center based in Kazakhstan. This is designated to work amongst Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The Center is founded on strong regional partnerships and cooperation between U.S. and international agencies.

There are several ways to go about preventing vector-borne diseases. WHO is already very involved. We provide training on clinical management, diagnosis, and vector control. We also develop new insecticides and spraying technologies. Although it may seem obvious, a huge factor is providing education and more awareness on protection against various vectors. Clean water and sanitation is key. Moreover, IVM strategies are very impactful. They strive for maximum disease control, yet are cost-effective. Negative impacts on the ecosystem and public health are taken into account and are minimal.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Kuwait
Delegate Name: Karl Hillenbrand
School: Fishers High School

While Kuwait hasn’t had large epidemics caused by vectors transmitting disease, in a small country with a large city sector, the threat of disease is very great. By reducing the amount of vectors that transmit diseases is the best way to reduce the risk to humans. Using genetics and technology is the only way to gain the upper hand on an otherwise elusive worldwide enemy. The greatest threat to an increase and introduction of vectors that transmit diseases comes right after a natural disaster. After the Haitian earthquake, disease became a large threat due to lack of clean water and sanitation. There was also an increase in diseases transmitted by vectors, because of the lack of housing for all the people without homes. Destroying insects that transmit these diseases are the best step for short term elimination. Destroying populations that can be killed off without destroying the environment is the best solution to this issue.

For long term solutions, providing the population with tips in how to deal with these issues is the first step in a long term goal of eliminating this as a major problem around the world. While it may be impossible to eliminate it as a whole, providing the tools needed to reduce the numbers is a must for long term success and moving forward. Tips like creating finer nets for sand flies instead of ones that are for mosquitos is one step towards providing all around protection around the world. But it is also important to respect the traditions and lifestyles of cultures around the world. Unfortunately sometimes this is a fact of life that must stand in the way but must be dealt with respect for the long term goal of respecting cultures around the world. How food and animals are prepared to how worship is conducted must be respected because of religious or national sovereignty rights.

Kuwait believes that human and animal protection comes before any other importance and must be dealt with in the year 2015. Diseases transmitted by vectors should not be an issue any longer and can be solved by a variety of ways including pesticides, genetics, and even more drastic measures depending on how easily this issue could be dealt with. Respecting national sovereignty is at the upmost importance and environmental protection is also important for long term success.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Lithuania
Delegate Name: Fabiola Murrieta Peralta
School: Instituto Educativo Olinca

Biting-insect populations have grown throughout the years. That is why changes must be done in order to achieve a healthy world. Controlling insects and its populations is almost impossible, why? Because there is no way to destroy the population or to stop them from reproducing because they form part od the life cicle. Therefore, the only way to control the transmission of diseases is preventing the population of each country.

Several cases of tick-borne encephalitis have been identified in Lithuania, and in many other countries from central Europe including Germany and Austria, as well as cases of Lyme disease in rural areas. The first is an infection that attacks the central nervous system and can cause permanent neuropsychiatric sequelae of long duration. The second is an infection whose symptoms include a characteristic rash, fever, arthritis and may cause neurological symptoms such as facial paralysis. Isolation has been one of the resolutions that have been given to the problem, but only to prevent other people from getting infected.

Though this is not controlling the biting-insect populations, there should be done campaigns and programs to inform everyone about how to take care. Programs such as thiese,, have been done in Mexico with the dengue infection and have worked. These programs include visits to houses of citizens to explain the risks and what can anyone do to take precaution against these insects, like cutting the trees, living in a cleaner and-healthier environment.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Dylan Haywood
School: Vicksburg High School

In mexico, the common mosquitoes are delivering many disease among the population of both mexico and the world. One of these diseases is a disease called chikungunya, this diseases symptoms are rashes, swelling joints, fever, and headache [non lethal]. This disease is going around the world infecting africa, central europe, both north and south americas, and indonesia. Mexico is being heavily affected by this, in the wallet and the people of mexico. The health and economy of mexico and her people are at risk because of this disease.

Another Insect, the triatomine bug [aka the Kissing Bug], carries the parasite, trypanosoma cruzi, which causes a disease, called the chagas disease. While this disease was found in and is most notable in Latin America, its signs have been seen in, the United States, Canada, and in many European and western pacific countries. An estimated 6 to 7 million people are infected worldwide. In Mexico, this is a very prominent problem, and one that has to be addressed immediately, both mexico and many other countries are ravaged by these insect vectors, and need to work on this problem.

The health care needed to fix this problem is currently not serving all in mexico due to health care imbalances, and is needed to protect the people and even other countries from these terrible disease carrying insects. This problem being rid of will also decrease the overall world mortality rate, including children and other groups, and will help economy around the world if this problem is dealt with, by having more people healthy and hardworking than sick.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Nepal
Delegate Name: Anudeeta Gautam
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Whether it be an industrialized nation or a developing world, vectors, organisms that transmit infectious diseases between humans and animals, are prevalent everywhere. Although preventable with effective measures and public awareness, vector-borne diseases continue to consist of more than 17% of the deaths from all infectious diseases. Up until 2013, Nepal has had a low occurrence of endemic diseases–only one or two, such as those caused by biting flies (Tabanidae). The issue of vectors has been increasingly growing and Nepal supports what the United Nations is currently doing to control biting-insect populations.

Due to migrant workers from India and climate changes of tropical highlands and temperate regions, Nepal is now endemic for five vector-borne diseases: malaria, lymphatic filariasis, Japanese encephalitis, visceral leishmaniasis and dengue fever. In 2013, malaria vectors were found in 38 out of 75 districts, in areas of Terai lowlands as well as hilly regions. Places of minimum and maximum temperatures are also at risk, with a predicted increase in highlands due to climatic change. Between 2002 and 2012, lymphatic filariasis was confirmed endemic in 60 districts of Nepal including mountain region districts. With the support of the World Health Organization in May 2004, Japanese encephalitis cases were reported from 40 additional districts including three mountain regions between 2004 and 2012, adding to the already reported 24 districts of lowland Terai. Visceral leishmaniasis saw its peak in Nepal around 2003 with almost 2500 reported cases, but as of 2012, the number has reduced to about 600. The increasing trend has a positive relationship with the rainy season, with the fewest cases during the winter. Nepal’s first reported outbreak of dengue fever, a local transmission by Aedes aegypti, was in nine urban areas of lowland Nepal in 2016; by 2013, it has expanded to 18 districts. Further risk stems from the fact that Nepal is a popular tourist destination and natives can contract many of the diseases they bring. Additionally, the atmosphere has become more vulnerable due to the recent earthquake and many communicable diseases have been spreading. The public has taken protocols by wearing face masks and it has developed into a popular new business for street vendors.

Nepal advocates the continuation of the United Nations’ current methods of prevention and control: long-lasting insecticidal nets, indoor and outdoor residual spraying, and addition of chemicals to water, environmental management (reducing breeding habitats, biological control, genetic control, waste management), housing modification, personal protection, and medication (prophylaxis and preventive therapies, mass treatment, vaccines, blood and body fluid safety, food safety). Nepal also supports its efforts to meet the challenges in the control of vector-borne diseases: emerging insecticide resistance, lack of expertise, surveillance, sanitation and access to safe, drinking water, pesticide safety, and environmental change.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Elise Wassink
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Biting insects are responsible for many of the world’s most problematic diseases. Dengue fever and Malaria are the most pervasive and fatal of Establishing programs responsible for the distribution of bed nets is one way of controlling the diseases. Ultimately, controlling diseases is the World Health Organization’s final goal. However, controlling the populations responsible for such diseases is often a more essential way of achieving this. It is important that methods involved in the control of insects are not harmful to the environment but are effective in their efforts. New Zealand publishes information online on both its associated health care and environmental health websites in order to educate its population about vector-borne illnesses they are at risk for and what can be done in case of exposure.

Biting insects are tied to 17% of infectious diseases in our world. New Zealand strongly encourages the distribution of information pertaining to biting insects and the distribution of material to combat them. The two major biting insects prominent in New Zealand are sandflies and mosquitos. There were 320 cases of vector-borne illnesses in New Zealand in 2014. 81% of these illnesses are Dengue Fever and Malaria. However, overseas travelers made up the bulk of almost all of the cases of vector-borne diseases from 2010-2014. The one exception to this was Rickettsial Disease, which indicates that Rickettsial Disease is the only vector-borne illness contracted in New Zealand. Rickettsial disease is often transmitted by fleas, lice, mites, and ticks, which indicates that mosquitos and sandflies should not be a major concern in New Zealand. The most prominent disease associated with Rickettsial infection is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), which has a relatively low case fatality. Additionally, there were only 6 reported cases of Rickettsial infection in New Zealand in 2014. Since New Zealand does not have a large problem with biting insects, the nation is willing to assist other nations that have major problems with insects and their correlated diseases.

New Zealand supports IVM, or Integrated Vector Management techniques outlined by the World Health Organization. IVM strategies emphasize the importance of understanding the ecology of a region and the patterns of its vector-borne diseases before implementing a plan to reduce biting insect populations. They also stress the integration of both chemical and non-chemical strategies to control population, with the availability of education about populations and regulations for health care to ensure access and availability. The use of insecticide-treated nets, or ITNs, has proven to drastically reduce malaria in certain countries. New Zealand emphasizes a fluid and integrated approach, similar to IVM, that is specific to each individual region affected by vector-borne diseases.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Maya Baker
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Malaria, Yellow and Dengue fever are the most common vector borne diseases in the world. Ninety per cent of all cases of Malaria, the deadliest one, occur in Africa. Nigeria is a high risk area for Malaria and Yellow Fever and Malaria is the cause of one in six childhood deaths. South, Central America, and Asia suffer from biting insect populations exceedingly more than Europe or North America. The delegation from Nigeria strongly feels that the nations of those continents should use some of its resources to assist those nations who experience sometimes crippling problems with biting insects. This delegation also firmly believes that while European and North American nations should help, they should trust the experience of affected regions and allow said countries to control what is done in their own state.

The best way to control the population of biting insect is to take simple measures to reduce their ability to survive. Standing water should always be covered. This not only keeps mosquitoes from being able to lay eggs, but also keeps the water from becoming contaminated and causing other health issues. There are many insecticides that can kill mosquitoes as larva or adults. The problem with these products is that they can be very expensive. Mosquito nets should be widely produced and be very easy to attain, no matter where someone lives. This is especially applicable in rural areas where biting insect populations are higher and it is harder to receive preventative gear.

Biting insect populations are extremely difficult to contain, but it can be done. The Nigerian delegation believes that with proper funding plans can be implemented to save millions of lives.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Eric Steeby
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Today vector-borne diseases account for nearly 20% of all infectious diseases resulting in over one million deaths every year.While mosquitos may be the most common disease vector we must not forget the others such as ticks flies sandflies fleas and other bugs we must not turn our back on this issue when nearly half of the world's population is at risk of malaria and 2.5 billion people in over 100 countries are at risk of contracting dengue alone.While others such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis still affect hundreds of millions of people.the vast majority of these diseases are preventable through informed protective measures

Pakistan is pleased by the responses that the international community has taken including providing training on clinical management, providing technical support and guidance to countries, helping countries improve their reporting systems.Such efforts have been spearheaded by the WHO, however, these measures while producing promising result remain insufficient, and Pakistan believes the WHO should remain the leading origination as we move forward, in our effort to save lives

Pakistan is deeply troubled by the growing number of reports that indicate mosquito resistance to pyrethroids, which are the backbone of vector control as they are currently the only class of insecticides recommended for ITNs or LLINs thankfully so far the resistance has rarely been associated with decreased efficacy of LLINs.however that is likely to change if we don't look at alternative options

The most straightforward solution would be the elimination of the responsible insect population, but then we risk natural disasters occurring do to changes in the environment.Pakistan acknowledges that reports have indicated the risk from killing off the insects to be minimal but as a country that has suffered from natural disasters as a result of climate change, without more research into the issue it is a risk Pakistan can not take.

That does not mean we should not take action while more research is being conducted while research is ongoing we should focus our energy on new countermeasures such as new pesticides and also on increased education.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Keely VandenBerge
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Biting insects are found in most countries around the world. It is an on-going problem to control the populations of biting-insects that cause illnesses, treat these illnesses they cause, and educate the world about the problems they cause. In order to understand the problem these insects cause, we must first discuss how they transmit these diseases. These insects are commonly called vectors, living organisms that can transmit infectious diseases between humans and animals. The most known diseases they transmit are malaria, yellow, fever, Lyme disease, West Nile virus, dengue fever, and even the plague. The WHO’s focus is on the transmission of these disease, but we can not ignore the role they play in their environments. These insects each have a specific role on their ecosystem and can not be forgotten. Numbers wise, vector borne disease cause more than 17% of all infectious diseases and account for more than 1 million deaths annually. The WHO’s approach to combating these disease is to focus on environmental and social behaviors within human populations, as well as systematic cultural adaptation and education of said population to ensure they can treat and prevent potential outbreaks. The WHO also partners with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and U.N. Environmental Programme (UNEP) to combat illnesses in our food supply. This is complicated by the rise of pesticide-resistant insects, a topic that may come up in our discussion. Therefore, we come here today to discuss how to control the populations of biting insects, and how to treat and contain the outbreaks they cause.

The biggest vector-borne disease that plagues Palestine is leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania parasites which are transmitted by the bite of infected sandflies. There are three main forms of the disease: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL also known as kala-azar), Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Visceral leishmaniasis is fatal if left untreated. It is characterized by irregular bouts of fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anaemia. VL most commonly infects infants in Palestine. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form of leishmaniasis and causes skin lesions, mainly ulcers, on exposed parts of the body, leaving life-long scars and serious disability. In Palestine, CL affects a much more broader age group then VL. Leishmaniasis occurs at a rate of infection of 8.5 per hundred thousand population, and recorded about 80% of cases in Jericho and Al-aghwar governorate, Tubas, and Qalqilya. Also recorded 8 cases of cytoplasmic leishmaniasis in three governorates: (4 in Ramallah and Al-Bireh 0.3 in Hebron, and one in Nablus ) , and the rate of infection of 0.3 per hundred thousand people. The Ministry of Health, especially the Departments of Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine is doing great efforts in the fight against this disease and in the treatment of the patients. We do this through treatment and swift diagnoses, but could use more supplies and education to stop the spread of the sand flies that cause it. According to WHO, poverty, malnutrition, population mobility, and environment are all major risk factors for leishmaniasis. Palestine is working towards treating and studying leishmaniasis when it occurs but also eliminating the risk factors that encourage the disease. Beyond this Palestine wishes to work with surrounding countries, in a diplomatic manner, to aid each other in stopping the spread of leishmaniasis.

The issue of vector borne diseases are a fixable problem. With proper education of populations to limit exposure to these disease, we can lower the 1 million deaths that occur for vector borne illnesses. Also by focusing on the root of some of the issues, like poverty and clean water, this number can be lowered. WHO, Palestine, and other countries need to focus on the communication between countries to stop the spread of insects across borders. By working together regions can control populations, not eliminate them, and keep illnesses to a minimum. Our job in the World Health Organization is to save lives, and by solving this problem we can accomplish this goal.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Courtney Clay
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

In 2014, Panama declared a public health emergency because of an outbreak of dengue fever. Dengue fever is a illness with flu like symptoms caused by a bite from an infected mosquito, However, if severe, dengue fever can damage the lungs, liver or heart. In some cases of dengue fever, blood pressure drops to dangerous levels, causing shock and possible death. Panama was listed by the head of the Panamanian Public Health as the North American country with the most cases of dengue fever. There were about 3,214 identified cases of dengue fever in 2013. More recently in January 2015, it was discovered mosquitos are the vector causing an outbreak in chikungunya. Chikungunya is a disease whose symptoms include chronic joint pain accompanied by sudden fever, headaches, fatigue nausea, vomiting, and a rashes. Panama responded to the dengue fever and now the chikungunya outbreaks by releasing Oxitec’s genetically engineered mosquitoes in Panama and have reached over 90% control of the mosquito responsible for outbreaks of dengue fever and chikungunya. The duration of mosquito releases was 27 weeks, the start of releases in Panama was 25 April 2014 and the end of release was 31 October 2014. Panama seems to only have issues with mosquito-borne diseases, no other insects seem to majorly affect Panama.

Panama reports insect borne illness outbreaks to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Panamanian government. The CDC typically releases health related information on their website to inform travelers about the diseases currently spreading in Panama. Then, the Panama government public health center is responsible for releasing information regarding disease outbreaks to the Panamanian public.

Panama currently is using the Oxitec mosquitoes to combat vector-borne diseases, they don’t currently have a specific protocol when vector-borne diseases arise. Panama understands the need for further research on vaccines and alternative approaches to vector control. Additionally, our nation needs to put in action a training system for health care workers to educate them on vector-borne diseases. This step has been attempted in the past, but never followed through on, we need to make sure to follow through with this training system. If we as a UN are able to create a successful health training system on vector-borne diseases, we could suggest to the security council to assign a representative of the UN in each country to educate their health care workers based on this system we would create. As previously mentioned, Panama has used Oxitec’s genetically engineered mosquitoes to control dengue fever and chikungunya.

Panama has not financially supported other nations in insect outbreaks, however, they have been active participants in test trials with Oxitec’s genetically engineered mosquitoes along with the Cayman Islands, Malaysia, Panama and Brazil. They have shared the positive results of this trial with Oxitec, and Panama continues to encourage other countries to use the method as well. Panama attempts to aid other countries by suggesting the methods that have worked for them. One day Panama hope to be able to financially support other countries, but right now, Panama currently can not.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Mia Holmgren
School: Mattawan High School

As a variety of diseases, such as Lyme disease, Malaria, and West Nile virus, are caused by insect bites, controlling the populations of biting insects is important for the health of the world. Mosquitoes and other biting insects can also transmit HIV/AIDS and TB. Yellow Fever is also common in Africa and travelers to those areas are warned against inviting insect bites. These diseases kill and debilitate people across the world, primarily in southern areas such as Africa and South America. Located in southern Europe, Portugal does not directly face the problem of biting insects, however, we recognize that in the modern world, overseas travel makes the problem a global one. As the World Health Organization, we should make an effort to provide countries in which insect bites are a widespread problem with mosquito nets to reduce the probability of being infected. Also, local officials should be instructed on how to reduce the biting insect population in their area, such as eliminating as much standing water as possible and ensuring that old tires do not fill with water, as this is a prevalent mosquito breeding site. Protective clothing should also be worn to avoid exposing as much skin as possible. Insect repellents should be made available to all and screens to prevent insect bites should be implemented wherever possible. Only in taking measures to prevent their spread will these illnesses be contained. Biting insects cause many diseases and are a threat to the health of the world. Thus, we with the WHO need to make measures towards eliminating that threat.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Olivia Decker
School: Royal Oak High School

Controlling biting insect populations is an important issue around the globe. Certain biting insects (i.e. mosquitoes) can cause the spread of fatal diseases, such as malaria. Although controlling these insect populations is not as pressing of a topic for Russia, we still view it as a very serious problem that must be addressed, as it is critical for some countries.

Fortunately, there is a very plausible solution to this issue-making resistance proof insecticides for malaria control. To understand how this will work, we first must understand malaria in mosquitoes. The way that malarial developmental stages work is that only mosquitos that are late in their life are able to transmit malaria to humans.

When the current forms of insecticide are used, they kill mosquitoes before they are able to breed, therefore the mosquitoes develop a resistance to the insecticide. These insecticides also kill the mosquitoes before they are even able to transmit the disease, and because the mosquitoes develop a resistance, the insecticides are only effective for a little while.

So the solution is to create a compound that is disproportionately effective against mosquitoes with advanced malaria infections. This way, the mosquitoes will still be allowed to breed, therefore they will not develop a resistance to the insecticide, and the compound will also kill off the mosquitoes that can transmit the malaria virus to humans. With the assumption that late life acting (LLA) insecticides have no impact on total mosquito densities or the proportion of humans that are infectious, the number of infectious bites will be reduced by 99.2%. Corresponding figures for LLA insecticides that kill slightly later in life are 97.9% and 94.2%.

Russia finds these figures very promising, especially seeing as they are minimums. We have strong hopes that throughout committee we will find a great solution to controlling biting insect populations, and in the process reduce infectious diseases across the globe.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Serbia
Delegate Name: Mason Kluemper
School: Fishers High School

The Republic of Serbia faces many different challenges in regard to the diseases caused by biting insects such as the mosquito, or non-insectoid animals in the rang of the category of “bug,” such as ticks, however, the most common ailments are caused by mosquitoes. Some diseases that are transmitted by a vector are Dengue Fever, malaria, and yellow fever, as well as a few cases of cutaneous Leishmaniasis from the bite of the sandfly. After the recent flooding in Serbia, it became a condition favorable for the breeding of mosquitoes, and there was a scare concerning the spread of West Nile Virus. This rumor was eventually proven to be false, however. In any case, the resulting scare helped raise awareness of the various ways in which a biting insect population could be dealt with in order to not riddle a population with any vector-borne diseases.

The Republic of Serbia, in the past, utilized one of the most effective preventative measures in the form of the mosquito net, which the WHO can easily provide at a relatively low price of $2.50 per net. However, ITNs, or Insecticide-Treated nets, or LLIN, or Long Lasting Insecticidal nets, have been found to be much more effective than untreated nets. An ITN on average is 70% more effective than an untreated net, but require retreating every 6 months to continue its effectiveness. Thus, LLINs have mostly replaced the ITNs in most places.

With the effectiveness of these nets, the resulting downward spike in vector-borne diseases is plain to see. Serbia would like to see more countries with problems surrounding these diseases taking up more of these useful measures. The MediLabSecure is an organization funded by the EU in order to try and help prevent these type of diseases form spreading, and transferring funds towards MediLabSecure would be a valuable way of lowering the overall mortality rate of the diseases spread by vectors by order of prevention. The Republic of Serbia strongly suggests that members of the WHO not included within the EU transfer funds towards the organization in order to assist the countries MediLabSecure oversees and the member states for which the organization is funded by. The beneficiaries of this organizations are as follows: Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Egypt, Georgia, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestine, The Republic of Macedonia, Tunisia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Any nation states that are not included in this list and are members of the WHO are strongly urged by The Republic of Serbia to become a beneficiary of MediLabSecure.

References

http://www.medilabsecure.com/countries.html

http://www.indexmundi.com/serbia/major_infectious_diseases.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosquito_net

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Rachel Van Boxtel
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Biting-insects greatly contribute to the spread of disease and illness worldwide, resulting in more than 1 million deaths annually. This is why the United Nations has made efforts to help citizens by controlling the population of biting-insects, increasing awareness and educating about vectors and their effects. Additionally, the United Nations has made efforts to treat specific illness, such as malaria and dengue fever. Fortunately, most of these diseases are preventable. By taking preventative measures, detecting vector-borne diseases early, and preparing for epidemics, many people can be protected from illnesses spread by biting-insects.

South Africa is deeply affected by vector-borne illness. The most prominent diseases in South Africa from biting-insects are malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, African Trypanosomiasis, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, and the plague. To combat this, South Africa included a target in its United Nations Millennium Development Goals: Goal 6, Target 8. This target aims to halt the occurrence of malaria by 2015 and reverse the trends of this and other major diseases. Although malaria is not completely eradicated as of this year, its has been consistent with the target of 10% reduction of annual cases and deaths of malaria. South Africa contributes its success with curbing malaria to spraying home interiors with DDT, using Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACT's) to decrease the number of infected parasites, preparedness for seasonal epidemics, training health professionals, and more. Additionally, working in conjunction with neighboring countries has proved beneficial for South Africa. For example, the Lubombo Spatial Development Initiative back in 2000 – funded privately until 2003 when government funds were contributed – involved the joint efforts of South Africa, Swaziland, and Mozambique to reduce malaria incidence rates from 25% to 2%. This was done by a “two-pronged” approach: indoor residual spray (IRS) and diagnostics tests and treatments such as Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACT’s).

Due to the success of the methods taken in South Africa, these methods of collaboration, control, and treatment should be magnified and replicated internationally. By spraying home interiors, diagnosing vector-borne illnesses early, and treating current cases properly, the global community can effectively monitor populations of biting-insects to ensure the reduction of deadly epidemics.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Serin Joice
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

With 17% of all infectious diseases stemming from vector-borne disease, over 1 million deaths occur annually – an astounding number for diseases that are preventable worldwide. Although South Korea has become a developed and industrialized nation, a large majority of illnesses and diseases are caused by mosquito-borne diseases. Dating back to the Korean War (1950-1953), more than 6000 cases of malaria were diagnosed in Korea and the start of an outbreak. In 1993, a Korean soldier was diagnosed with malaria and the number of cases increased exponentially over the next 7 years. Through WHO malaria eradication programs and vast improvements to the Korean economy and quality of housing, South Korea has improved their number of malaria cases since.

As of today, the ROK is currently in the elimination phase. To combat the malaria outbreak in 1997, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDCP) launched a national malaria control program; a program that includes early case detection and treatment, chemoprophylaxis of soldiers, and vector control. This new program also provided financial support to the DPRK for malaria control efforts, and overall led to an 80 percent decrease in the number of malaria cases. Due to the shared border between DPRK and ROK, many efforts have been made to decrease malaria cases throughout both countries. ROK has provided bed nets, antimalarial drugs, laboratory drugs, and insecticides to the DPRK, yet the need for cross-border collaboration is a major concern.

There are a variety of programs that South Korea has instituted to help control and maintain disease control. South Korea’s Global Public Health Official Development Assistance Projects is an organization that provides assistance to other neighboring countries through projects that target health care systems, health education, maternal health and infectious disease. South Korea believes that similar steps should be taken in countries that are facing the same problem from vector-borne diseases. At the first sign of an outbreak, the WHO established the National Malaria Eradication Service in South Korea in 1959. This service involved indoor DDT residual spraying, chloroquine treatment for blood stage parasites, and primaquine treatment for liver-stage parasites – within two decades South Korea was declared malaria-free by WHO. This process can be implemented in other countries struggling with vector-borne diseases and is the most efficient and effective solution to this problem.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Nick Smith
School: Vicksburg High School

Spain was recently faced with Chikungunya virus, a disease spread by mosquitoes. The entire globe is being faced with biting insects. Through the past years and still now, the World health Organization and many other organizations with in the United Nations have tried to control biting insect populations. The organizations also try to teach about these insects, and ways to protect ourselves against them. Insects are often called vectors. A vector is a living being that can transmit disease from bug to human or animal to human. The most know vector is the mosquito. Tick, fleas are other examples of vectors. The diseases they can spread are malaria, the plague, chikungunya and that’s only a few.

Some have brought up the idea of killing of the species that carry these diseases. We can’t kill them off. That would create a new problem. We need to either teach about things we can do to protect ourselves from these vectors, or limit the species.

Over 1 million deaths are reported because of these diseases. Not all of the diseases spread by vectors are deadly. Malaria causes over 600,000 deaths alone. Diseases like these and more are preventable when taught about. Bug bed nets are a good tool to have in a warmer tropical climate or in under developed countries.

As the United Nations it’s our jobs to decide how to face the biting insects population. we have organizations with in the U.N. that can help monitor, and lower the populations of these insects. We have organizations that can also teach about these issues. We have to get these populations under control.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Catherine Stapleton
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The African continent has been burdened with biting insect populations more than any other region in the world. In 2013, for example, 90% of all malaria deaths occurred in the World Health Organization’s African regions.

The most prevalent vector-borne illness in Sudan is malaria. Sudan has the highest malaria rate in the Eastern Africa/Mediterranean region. With the help of the World Health Organization, Sudan’s National Malaria Control Programme has been able to reduce the number of malaria related deaths to less than one million in 2010 (compared to four million in 2000). However, malaria still reaches epidemic size proportions every year in six of Sudan’s eighteen states because of the annual flooding of the Nile River. Because 69% of Sudanese people are employed in agricultural work, they are constantly in situations where they can contract this disease. Though Sudan recognizes that total prevention of this flooding is not possible, it believes construction projects in low-lying, flood-prone areas would reduce the breeding area for mosquitos and thus reduce the number of malaria cases in those regions as well. Sudan will continue to work with the World Health Organization in distributing the necessary supplies needed to combat malaria. WHO and the Sudanese government have already distributed free Artemisinin-based combination therapy treatments (which target the most deadly malarial parasites) to 89% of Sudan’s health facilities. Sudan will work to provide these free treatments for 100% of its health facilities in the future and will distribute mosquito nets and rapid diagnostic tests in villages that may not have access to larger medical facilities. Sudan will also continue to shift from symptom-based treatment to test-based treatment in an effort to proactively protect against this illness. Sudan encourages the UNDP to continue working with our country: almost 5 million cases of malaria have been treated since 2009 because of our cooperation with this organization.

Unlike malaria, which is more common in the rural areas, dengue fever is another widespread illness that is more prevalent in urban areas. Because Sudan’s urbanization rate is 2.54%, this means that dengue fever may become a greater problem in the future. Though there are no treatments currently available other than a forced incubation period to let the illness run its course, Sudan will try to prevent dengue fever from becoming more widespread by distributing mosquito nets and providing health clinics in major cities where people can stay until their isolation period ends.

Sudan would welcome the cooperation of other UN nations in working with Non-Governmental Organizations like UNICEF, WHO, and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society to increase information about preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the prevalence of vector-borne illness.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Hannah Jones-Reiser
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Sweden recognizes the importance of limiting the population of biting insects. Insects that bite humans oftentimes transmit illnesses and diseases such as malaria and dengue fever to their hosts, especially in countries that have climates more contusive to the breeding of these insects. These insect-borne maladies account for over 1 million deaths annually all over the world. The majority of the diseases being spread are viruses rather than bacteria, making it even harder to treat infected patients. While Sweden has not experienced an outbreak of diseases caused by insect bites, we continually support the efforts of the UN to attempt to produce a remedy for this problem.

Sweden reaffirms the study done that produces a male mosquito that, when breeding with other mosquitos, will lead to a generation of mosquitos that die off. Recognizing that mosquitos, despite how big of a problem they can be, are still a vital part of many ecosystems, Sweden supports this practice over practices that would suggest the annihilation of mosquitos. We also recognize that because we do not face this problem in our own country, we should listen to the voices of the countries that experience this epidemic, and rather than seeking to create a panacea for this complex issue, seek to work with them to create a solution that meets the special needs of each affected country.

Once again, Sweden would like to call upon the aid of Doctors Without Borders to structure a plan that would provide medical supplies specifically for the treatment of these illnesses to affected countries with little or no cost to the country receiving aid. We would also like to encourage Environmental Non-Governmental Organizations to oversee population limiting efforts to ensure that the balance of different ecosystems is not being harmed.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Chloe Jacobs
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Switzerland understands the need for an immediate solution to stop the Malaria epidemic. While it is just a small problem in Switzerland, we recognize the greater impact on the rest of the world. Some 200 cases of Malaria are officially reported yearly in Switzerland. It is estimated that 2000-8000 Swiss travellers are infected by the anopheles mosquito annually.

Switzerland firmly believes that Malaria is a major cause and consequence of poverty. As research shows that Malaria is preventable with Malaria-combating equipment and proper education, the United Nations must focus its attention towards these initiatives. Switzerland believes that the problem lies not only with the infected victim but also the financial impact on the whole family. Most times the infected individual is not able to return to work and therefore lacks the income necessary to provide for his or her family. If the infected family member is a child, the parent might not be able to work in order to attend to their sick child. Often the medication and treatment drains a family's financial recourses. Although the current common anti-Malarials are inexpensive (only a few cents per treatment) they have been found to be ineffective. According to Unicef, the new treatment, ACTs have increased around 200% in cost ($2.00-2.50 for adult treatment). While this seems insignificant, for many citizen in Sub-Saharan Africa, this could mean an entire month's income. The economist reports that in 2008, 60% of the world's poorest lived in Sub-Saharan Africa. These statistics demonstrate that as the income of the most vulnerable population decreases, the cost of treatment exponentially increases. A cost effective way to work towards the ultimate eradication of Malaria is by providing the most vulnerable with education and prevention strategies. Switzerland proposes allocating resources to send educators to Sub-Saharan Africa. Switzerland also proposes allocating funds to providing Malaria prevention tools such as distribution of Malaria nets and mosquito repellant. Switzerland's positions is that prevention is the most cost effective and sustainable way towards eventual eradication of Malaria.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Togo
Delegate Name: Sean McMahon
School: Royal Oak High School

Due to The Togolese Republic’s geographic location, vector-borne pathogens are a very serious reality for citizens. Diseases like malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever are major killers, especially among the very young and very old. Insects can pass these pathogens to humans, and to animals (such as livestock) which can also infect humans. Other countries along the equator and in other tropical regions will all benefit once a permanent solution is reached. While the international community works together to find a long term solution, there will still be a void left in the short term.

Studies say that mosquitoes could theoretically be wiped out without damaging the ecosystem. Research also suggests that a gene could be placed in a mosquito population, causing that population to have mostly male offspring. This would greatly decrease the size of the mosquito population in a short period of time, as mosquito generations are not alive for long. As they continue to reproduce, mosquito generations will have fewer and few individuals. There has been research on insecticides that are resistance-proof. Clinical testing of potential malaria vaccines is being done. These solutions are all being developed but will still require a long period of time and a lot of resources. We should view them as long term goals. When infants and the elderly die everyday, we need to act fast. Ways to prevent vector-borne diseases should be given to citizens that cannot pay for it themselves. People must be educated on the topic of biting insects and the diseases they may carry.

As a developing nation, we can not spare resources to research and develop a method to killing off vectors or a cure on our own. This is why we have rely heavily on ITNs and treatments. Currently in Togo, 57.1% of children sleep under ITNs. 33.8% of children afflicted with malaria are given antimalaria treatments. These numbers are small due to our low average incomes. Families cannot always afford to pay for ITNs or treatments because they are living below the poverty line. Indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) can be used to protect individuals within their homes. These vector control solutions have proved effective but there are concerns over insecticide resistance. In countries like Togo with mostly agricultural exports, people spend long periods of time outdoors. Citizens must understand that personal protective measures, such as long sleeves, insect repellent and ITNs, should be utilized in areas with a high infection risk.

Togo, like many other underdeveloped countries in Africa, needs help fighting biting insect populations and the diseases they carry. The WHO should focus resources on a long term solution to end these diseases or eliminate vectors all together. Until that goal is reached, the committee should determine what short term solutions are the most effective relative to their cost. Also, there is a great need for education regarding vector-borne pathogens. WHO should provided detailed information on how to avoid disease and what to do if infection is suspected. Other developed nations should work together to seek a cure for diseases like malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever, or a method to eradicate mosquitos all together. The WHO should incentivize the development of such goals.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Trinidad and Tobago
Delegate Name: Ana Kim
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Biting-Insect is an issue that remains as a great problem in many different countries. These insects, also referred to as vectors, are capable of transmitting infectious diseases and are the ones to blame for the spreading of deadly diseases like the dengue fever, malaria, and yellow fever. They are accountable for more than 7% of all infectious diseases, resulting in the death of more than one million a year. Vector control is an important issue for Trinidad and Tobago as cases of malaria are continuously being reported. Many of the cases trace back to mosquito breeding which is found in barrels of stored water in areas where piped water is scarce.

According to the World Health Organization, a child dies every minute from malaria. By wiping out the mosquito population, we would be able to save around 207 million people every year from suffering and even death. But because the ecological role of mosquitoes are not entirely known, the uncertainty that accompanies the benefits of eliminating the whole population does not present the best solution. So instead of wiping out the entire population, it is crucial that research is heavily emphasized for the creation of new vaccinations, and meanwhile, to educate the citizens of ways to protect themselves and alternate ways of prevention. Along with education, it would be imperative to send along supplies to assist with the prevention as well as strategies that will further encourage prevention, such as residual spray, chemicals to treat the water, and treating patients with proper care and medications.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Tunisia
Delegate Name: Lydia Kugler
School: Williamston High School

Biting insects are a global issue that affects all nations as deadly diseases are easily transmitted from one being to another. Such threatening diseases include: Lyme disease, Malaria, Yellow fever, West Nile virus, and Dengue fever. As reported by the World Health Organization in 2013, there were 200 million cases of malaria. A living organism that transmits infectious diseases between humans or from animals to humans is called a vector. Biting insects cause millions of deaths a year, killing children to seniors. There are some preventative measures such as bed nets that can be used in order to protect citizens, but it is not always effective. Vector-borne diseases account for 17% of all infectious diseases transmitted among citizens. Researchers in the United Kingdom have created a drug to prevent malaria in its soldiers, but it has been discovered that the drug causes awful side effects like sleep deprivation and depression. It is essential that the World Health Organization derive a solution to prevent increasing deaths by insect transmitted diseases.

In Tunisia, transmitted diseases from insects most often occur from April to November. Tunisia is affected by most of the infectious diseases spreading through Africa and that threaten the world. Tunisia is currently working to eradicate common diseases such as polio, measles, and malaria within its borders, but it is still causing death to so many citizens. It is important for medical centers to expand in countries as well as proper resources to spread throughout the county in order to ensure each citizen has the proper protection. Common treatments used in Tunisia to prevent fatalities due to biting-insects include bush nets and repellent creams. The water that is provided to troops must be hypochlorinated. Some diseases can be prevented with vaccines, which are limited in some countries. Tunisia uses many vaccinations with its citizens, beginning administration to children as young as five, but are limited to diseases such as tetanus or polio. Due to Tunisia’s more developed medical centers, compared to other African countries, our nation continues to battle infectious diseases that are transmitted by biting insects.

It is essential the World Health Organization expand research programs with increased funding in order to improve vaccinations or discover preventative techniques that can be applied to nations suffering from diseases such as malaria or yellow fever. Tunisia is limited in resources and requires advanced technology to develop collections of medicines that could be used to aid in citizens suffering from such fatal diseases. Tunisia would like to encourage a compromise between developed and developing nations in order to share resources and halt the spread biting-insect infectious diseases. It would be most influential to the population if Tunisia had access to vaccines that can be used to prevent such fatal infectious diseases. Tunisia hopes for new and safe drugs to ensure the safety of our people. We are looking for the support of other African nations that can relate in this situation, as well as developed nations that are willing to help protect our population and eliminate vector-borne diseases. As the republic of Tunisia, we look to other developing nations suffering from similar situations, as well as developed nations that could provide aid.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Turkmenistan
Delegate Name: Zach Truxton
School: Grand Blanc High School

Throughout the world there has been a huge problem with biting- insects. Biting-insects plague many countries as they spread diseases; diseases like aids and HIV. Most countries with biting insect problems are that of ones which are economically depressed therefore they cannot help themselves in fighting the problem at hand as they have very little money to do so. It is our duty in the United Nations to band together to try and create a resolution that bears in mind all countries beliefs and is for the greater good of peoples affected worldwide by the problem.

Turkmenistan believes that these biting insects pose a great danger to its people and the peoples of other countries. To stop the further spread of disease Turkmenistan thinks a plan of wiping them out, and limiting the population of biting insects would be sufficient. Turkmenistan however cannot see the possibility of itself participating in any such program as it is not economically feasible at this time. Yet Turkmenistan believes that it is the duty of other countries to participate in such a cause as it is a cause which would strengthen the bond of other countries and the UN as a whole. Another reason Turkmenistan wishes to stay out of the matter is its government deems the practice of neutrality as being its best diplomatic solution and advantage.

To solve the problem at the source Turkmenistan believes it is best to try and to eliminate biting insects at the source. A practical way to stop the spread of diseases would be to eliminate biting insects from reproducing. To do this countries should use a safe repellent that kills the insects. This would diminish the population growth of the insects and prevent more from reproducing. In this solution Turkmenistan recognizes the fact that not all biting insects will be killed off by such a repellent thus it believes countries which are underdeveloped and affected by disease carrying insects the most should be given other measures such as netting to solve the problem. Netting is easily responsible for stopping the spread of malaria from biting insects to humans; this practice is the most conventional option and is already implemented in some countries stricken by such problems.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Molly Miller
School: Mattawan High School

The United Kingdom recognizes that biting insects create issues for all nations, not just third world countries. That being said, we realize that many third world countries need more help than others in order to combat this growing problem. Vectors carry many deadly diseases, including malaria, the West Nile virus, and yellow fever; they cause health risks to people in all part of the world.

The United Kingdom’s agriculture, which supplies food to 60% of the population, is in danger of transmitting diseases to people (due to vectors). We have implemented the Tick Recording Scheme, which tracks, monitors, and identities numerous species of ticks and collects their population levels. This program, along with the Highland Biological Recording Group, records data that helps decide necessary health program changes to lessen Britons’ health risks. In the past, the Blandford black fly has been a problem due to its painful bite and large population growth; however, the application of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which target the aforementioned species, controlled the population. This vector posed problems due to its spread of river blindness and painful bite. The Blandford black fly population was also reduced through the use of repellents, especially those that contained DEET or picaridin, common ingredients in insect repellents.

In order to solve the health threat of biting insects, the United Kingdom proposes that other United Nations committees and non-governmental organizations help provide international aid. These organizations have the ability to provide to numerous peoples, regardless of their home country, so there would be no debates as to what nations would provide insect relief. Additionally, people must be protected, whether its through bed nets, pesticides, or vaccines. All people, no matter their nation, must be protected, as all are at risk of becoming infected with diseases transmitted through mosquitos and other vectors.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Timothy Lee
School: Fishers High School

Although the United States of America has never personally dealt with diseases cause by insects, or any other major problem caused by biting insects, the United States of America is aware that this is a significant problem, specifically in Sub-Saharan Africa, and we are willing to do anything we can to tackle the situation. Although different climates affect which diseases biting insects spread, the United States of America would like to mainly focus on the mosquitoes that spread malaria. Malaria is not only a problem for the people who are living, but an enormous problem for young children, pregnant women, and travelers who are from malaria-free environments. According to the World Health Organization, “In 2015, approximately 3.2 billion people – nearly half of the world's population – were at risk of malaria. Most malaria cases and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. However, Asia, Latin America, and, to a lesser extent the Middle East and parts of Europe, are also at risk. In 2015, 97 countries and territories had ongoing malaria transmission.”

Although it’s tempting to say that the solution to this problem is to just simply eliminate all the mosquitoes that carry malaria since it wouldn’t really change the ecosystem in anyway, the United States of America believes that this is not the most effective way to prevent diseases caused by biting insects because not only do all mosquitoes carry malaria, but some mosquitoes actually don’t bite at all, so it’s difficult to identify which mosquitoes are dangerous and which are not. Because of this, the United States of America believes that the most effective to combat this problem is to have the top minds and researches from around the world to figure out a way to either invent a vaccine to cure the diseases, or control the mosquito population.

Despite Sub-Saharan African countries having vaccines for malaria, studies have shown that the leading vaccine is less than 40% effective, so it is important for the top scientists all around the world to help develop vaccines that can cure, or at least modify the effects of the disease, so that not only can the people living Sub-Saharan African countries live free from malaria, but also keep travelers who have never experienced malaria, healthy and strong. If scientists choose to limit the mosquito population instead, there has been research of genetically modified mosquito that has the capability to kill of other mosquitoes. Research has shown that only male mosquitoes would be modified because it will not only not affect humans, animals, or the ecosystem, but also when these mosquitoes mate, their modified genes will not be passed down to their offspring. This will not only limit the mosquito population in Sub-Saharan Africa, but also limit malaria as well.

While this research goes on, the United States of America believes that the best way to counter mosquitoes that spread malaria right now is to distribute more mosquito nets, more bug spray, and to establish more hospitals with the proper medical staff, equipment, and supplies. The United States of America is aware that many people living in Sub-Saharan African nations have been using mosquito nets and indoor bug spray to limit their chances of catching malaria from mosquitoes. Because this is such an effective method whenever inside or sleeping, the United States of America asks that the United Nations and programs such as Doctors Without Borders disperse more of these items to help fight mosquitoes carrying malaria. Unfortunately, the United States of America is also aware that there is a limited amount of hospitals in these nations, so the United States of America asks that the United Nations convince these Sub-Saharan African nations to build more hospitals and medical centers, along with donating the medical staff, equipment and supplies to these hospitals in order to successfully combat the disease and have the people live healthier and fitter lives.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Kate VerMeulen
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Diseases such as Malaria, Dengue, and Leishmaniasis are just a few of the diseases found in South America as a result of bug bites. While the biting-insect populations in Venezuela have dropped significantly, there have been recent cases of Malaria this year along with other insect related infections, which is extremely startling considering the fact that diseases such as these have almost been completely wiped out, and should no longer be such a threat.

Although Venezuela has made significant efforts in trying to stop the spread of these diseases by draining waters where parasites were thriving and by distributing mosquito nets, the insect population still needs to be controlled. Venezuela recognizes that more can be done in the prevention and control of biting-insect populations, and believes that in order to control biting insect populations, more shelters should be available for the poor and those living in rural areas. Vector control and blood screenings are vital parts to controlling biting-insect populations, and in Venezuela, it is vital to make sure people can accesses both of these resources. In addition to this, the public, as well as tourists, should be advised to take more precautions. For example, everyone should have insect repellent with them at all times, and should wear clothing that adequately covers the body to prevent biting-insects. However, those are more short term solutions, and Venezuela believes that a long-term system should be put in place to prevent diseases as a result from bug bites like these from reoccurring.

In order for this to be possible, more NGOs such as UNICEF, UNEP and other partners of WHO should collaborate to create a system that not only helps with biting-insect populations in South America, but globally. Additionally, more resources and education opportunities should be available to those at risk, so they can learn how to prevent disease from spreading, and how to aid in the efforts of controlling biting-insect populations.

Venezuela firmly believes in controlling biting-insect populations, and supports the UN’s efforts to decrease the spread of disease as a result of such infections.

Topic: Controlling Biting-Insect Populations
Country: Zimbabwe
Delegate Name: Dorris Dagama
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Insects in general are pesky little beings that are at worse, infuriating to deal with. However, real trouble starts to brew when insects are responsible for causing the deaths of a significant portion of the population. Due to Zimbabwe's hot and humid weather conditions, diseases caused by biting insects are prevalent. Among those are malaria, yellow fever, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Chikungunya, and various other diseases.

It is encouraged to get vaccinated prior to your arrival in Zimbabwe. For those who reside in Zimbabwe, immunization shots can be offered at hospitals and clinics.

Additionally, several people put screens in their windows and slider doors. Often, the insects will get trapped in the mesh and find it difficult to escape and enter your home.

The initial Global Malaria Eradication Campaign of 1955-69 sprayed the inside of walls with DDT to prevent insects from living in them. Constant use of DEET prevents mosquitoes from biting humans. The Zimbabwean government is also recommending that people start wearing protective repellants. For protection against malaria, there are anti-malarial drugs that can be used to inhibit the growth of parasites within the bloodstream.

There are a wide range of diseases caused by insects. Due to their lack of facilities, lots of people in Zimbabwe rarely get the treatment they deserve and as a result, diseases that could have easily been treated are causing several deaths within the country. Several people in Zimbabwe are unable to afford some of the costs needed to cover hospital care and expenses.

In essence, Zimbabwe has recognized the problems and diseases caused by biting insects, which is the first step towards solving it. Although the prevention plans are still being modified, Zimbabwe has taken steps to attempt to control the biting insect population.