Spatial-temporal analysis of reinfestation by Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) following insecticide spraying in a rural community in northwestern Argentina.

CECERE MC; VAZQUEZ-PROKOPEC GM; GURTLER RE; KITRON U

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE

Año: 2004 p. 803 - 810

0002-9637

Abstract. The spatio-temporal reinfestation patterns by Triatoma infestans following a blanket insecticide sprayingin the rural community of Amamá in northwestern Argentina were analyzed using a geographic information system,satellite imagery, and spatial statistics. Domestic and peridomestic reinfestation by triatomine bugs was monitored from1993 to 1997. Triatoma infestans was detected at least once in 75% of 2,110 sites evaluated. The prevalence of sitespositive at least once for T. infestans during the study period increased sharply from 1993-1995 (0.6-2.9%) to November1997 (32%). The initial source of T. infestans was a pig corral in southern Amamá one year post-spraying. Subsequentinfestations were clustered around this initial focus at a distance of approximately 400 meters starting in 1995. In 1996,clustering was maximized in sites within the same or in neighboring compounds at distances of 25-175 meters. Aneffective control program on the community level will be based on the spraying of actual epicenters and sites within 450meters of these epicenters to prevent the propagation of T. infestans.