Abstract
BackgroundChagas disease is a vector-borne parasitic disease of major public health importance. Current prevention efforts are based on triatomine vector control to reduce transmission to humans. Success of vector control interventions depends on their acceptability and value to affected communities. We aimed to identify opportunities for and barriers to improved vector control strategies in the Yucatan peninsula, Mexico.Methodology/principal findingsWe employed a sequence of qualitative and quantitative research methods to investigate knowledge, attitudes and practices surrounding Chagas disease, triatomines and vector control in three rural communities. Our combined data show that community members are well aware of triatomines and are knowledgeable about their habits. However, most have a limited understanding of the transmission dynamics and clinical manifestations of Chagas disease. While triatomine control is not a priority for community members, they frequently use domestic insecticide products including insecticide spray, mosquito coils and plug-in repellents. Families spend about $32 US per year on these products. Alternative methods such as yard cleaning and window screens are perceived as desirable and potentially more effective. Screens are nonetheless described as unaffordable, in spite of a cost comparable to the average annual spending on insecticide products.Conclusion/SignificanceFurther education campaigns and possibly financing schemes may lead families to redirect their current vector control spending from insecticide products to window screens. Also, synergism with mosquito control efforts should be further explored to motivate community involvement and ensure sustainability of Chagas disease vector control.
Highlights
Chagas disease is a vector-borne parasitic disease endemic in the Americas, where it is of major public health importance, affecting up to 8–9 million people [1]
Chagas disease is an important parasitic disease transmitted by triatomine bugs
Current prevention efforts are based on eliminating triatomines from homes to reduce disease transmission to humans
Summary
Chagas disease is a vector-borne parasitic disease endemic in the Americas, where it is of major public health importance, affecting up to 8–9 million people [1]. Chagas disease is present in Mexico, but its importance is poorly documented and controversial. In Yucatan, seroprevalence ranges from 1% in urban areas up to 5% in rural villages [8,9]. Despite these data, there is no national vector control program to reduce transmission, nor are there education campaigns to raise awareness of the disease in Mexico. Chagas disease is a vector-borne parasitic disease of major public health importance. We aimed to identify opportunities for and barriers to improved vector control strategies in the Yucatan peninsula, Mexico
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