Abstract
To assess infestation levels of Aedes aegypti using the oviposition trap (ovitrap) method and to compare these results with data obtained with the use of indices traditionally applied in public programs aimed at fighting this vector. Nine sentinel areas in Northeastern, Brazil, were assessed and infestation levels were measured for a nine-month period. Egg density and container indices were estimated and compared with previous results found using the house index and Breteau index. The results indicated that the area studied was infested with this vector during the entire study period and that the infestation was widespread in all areas. Different results were found with the different indices studied. There were areas in which the house index and the Breteau index were negative or close to zero, whereas the container index for the same area was 11% and the egg density index was 8.3%. The container and egg density indices allow better assessment of infestation rates in a city than the conventionally used indices (house index and Breteau index). At lower operational costs and easier standardization, these indices can be applied as a measurement tool for assessing infestation rates during entomological surveillance in programs to fight Aedes aegypti.
Highlights
The complexity of the dynamics of dengue transmission has motivated researchers to carry out studies on the multiple factors related to the circulation and persistence of the virus in human communities.[5]
Given the need to evaluate the effectiveness of actions carried out in Aedes aegypti control programs and to establish sensitive risk prediction indicators, the development of accurate methods for defining vectorial density has become a very important issue
Based on the mean values of container index (CI) and egg density index (EDI), the positive ovitraps indicated egg-laying and the presence of females in every area surveyed during every month of the study (Table)
Summary
The complexity of the dynamics of dengue transmission has motivated researchers to carry out studies on the multiple factors related to the circulation and persistence of the virus in human communities.[5]. There is still no scientific basis for establishing the minimum threshold of vectorial density that has to be reached in order to assure that the virus does not circulate.[5,6] In Salvador, Brazil, a recent study reported a high incidence of human infection in areas in which infestation indices were less than 3% as measured by conventional indicators.[7,9]. Given the need to evaluate the effectiveness of actions carried out in Aedes aegypti control programs and to establish sensitive risk prediction indicators, the development of accurate methods for defining vectorial density has become a very important issue. Conventional control programs have estimated vector density using the house index (HI) and the Breteau index (BI).[2]
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