Environmental health: genetic control of vectors: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

PSM · Environmental health: genetic control of vectors

Sample item

Release of sterile males to reduce the vector population is an example of which method of vector control?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Genetic control

Genetic control alters the reproductive capacity of the vector, for example through the sterile insect technique or cytoplasmic incompatibility. Biological control uses natural enemies such as fish and bacteria.

Option by option

  • A. Chemical control

    Chemical control uses insecticides or larvicides.

  • B. Biological control

    Biological control uses predators and pathogens.

  • C. Genetic control (correct)

    Correct. Sterile male release is genetic control.

  • D. Environmental control

    Environmental control modifies breeding sites.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is C, Genetic control. Genetic control alters the reproductive capacity of the vector, for example through the sterile insect technique or cytoplasmic incompatibility.

Why is "Chemical control" not the answer?

Chemical control uses insecticides or larvicides.

Why is "Biological control" not the answer?

Biological control uses predators and pathogens.

Why is "Environmental control" not the answer?

Environmental control modifies breeding sites.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Environmental health: genetic control of vectors in PSM. Biological control uses natural enemies such as fish and bacteria.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Environmental health: genetic control of vectors?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.