Controlling Chagas Disease Vectors in Mexico
Author Information
Author(s): Barbu Corentin, Dumonteil Eric, Gourbière Sébastien
Primary Institution: UMR 5244 CNRS/UPVD/EPHE, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, France
Hypothesis
Can spatially targeted control strategies effectively reduce the population of non-domiciliated Triatoma dimidiata, the vector of Chagas disease?
Conclusion
Combining insect screens in outer zones with peri-domicile cleaning in the center of the village can significantly reduce Chagas disease vector populations.
Supporting Evidence
- Indoor insecticide spraying reduced vector abundance by up to 80%.
- Insect screens decreased total vector abundance by about 80%.
- Peri-domicile cleaning reduced total bug abundance by up to 62%.
- Manipulation of house attractiveness could reduce domestic infestation by up to 60%.
- Insect lethal traps could reduce global vector abundance by up to 72%.
Takeaway
This study shows that to keep bugs away from houses, we can use screens on the outside and clean up around the houses in the middle of the village.
Methodology
A spatially explicit population dynamic model was combined with a two-year field study of T. dimidiata infestation dynamics.
Limitations
The study may not account for all environmental factors affecting vector populations.
Participant Demographics
The study involved households in the village of Teya, Mexico.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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