Strengthening vector control programs through workforce capacity assessment in Central Java Province Indonesia

Central Java Province, Indonesia, has successfully reduced malaria incidence from 1.08 per 1,000 population in 2018 to 0.03 per 1,000 population in 2024, and similarly decreased newly found chronic limphatic filariasis cases from 23 cases in 2018 to 3 cases in 2024, through effective vector control programs. However, dengue incidence remains unstable, with incidence rate (IR) fluctuating between 6.27 and 33.9 annually during the same period. Competent staff, specifically public health entomologists, are essential for successful vector control implementation, yet their numbers in health offices remain insufficient. This qualitative implementation study assessed workforce capacity related to vector control through semi-structured interviews with 29 participants across thirteen institutions. Thematic analysis revealed two key findings: (1) the critical need to increase the availability of public health entomologists to strengthen vector control, and (2) the importance of continuous training to enhance staff capacity at regional levels. The findings underscore urgent actions to meet Ministry of Health staffing standards and advocate for prioritizing investment in workforce development to accelerate elimination of vector-borne diseases.