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

The spatio-temporal reinfestation patterns by Triatoma infestans following a blanket insecticide spraying in the rural community of Amama in northwestern Argentina were analyzed using a geographic information system, satellite imagery, and spatial statistics. Domestic and peridomestic reinfestation by triatomine bugs was monitored from 1993 to 1997. Triatoma infestans was detected at least once in 75% of 2,110 sites evaluated. The prevalence of sites positive at least once for T. infestans during the study period increased sharply from 1993-1995 (0.6-2.9%) to November 1997 (32%). The initial source of T. infestans was a pig corral in southern Amama one year post-spraying. Subsequent infestations 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. An effective control program on the community level will be based on the spraying of actual epicenters and sites within 450 meters of these epicenters to prevent the propagation of T. infestans.