An innovative ecohealth intervention for Chagas disease vector control in Yucatan, Mexico

Received 7 August 2014; revised 13 October 2014; accepted 13 October 2014Background:Non-domiciliated (intrusive) triatomine vectors remain a challenge for the sustainability ofChagas disease vector control as these triatomines are able to transiently (re-)infest houses. One of the best-characterizedexamplesisTriatomadimidiatafromtheYucatanpeninsula,Mexico,whereadultinsectsseasonallyinfest houses between March and July.Methods: We focused our study on three rural villages in the state of Yucatan, Mexico, in which we performeda situation analysis as a first step before the implementation of an ecohealth (ecosystem approach to health)vector control intervention.Results: The identification of the key determinants affecting the transient invasion of human dwellings byT. dimidiata was performed by exploring associations between bug presence and qualitative and quantitativevariables describing the ecological, biological and social context of the communities. We then used a participa-tory action research approach for implementation and evaluation of a control strategy based on window insectscreens to reduce house infestation by T. dimidiata.Conclusions: This ecohealth approach may represent a valuable alternative to vertically-organized insecticidespraying. Further evaluation may confirm that it is sustainable and provides effective control (in the sense oflimiting infestation of human dwellings and vector/human contacts) of intrusive triatomines in the region.Keywords: Chagas disease, Community participation, Triatoma dimidiata, Vector control