Triatominae de Socorro do Piauí: diversidade e nível de infecção por trypanosoma cruzi

Abstract

Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, affects up to 8 million people worldwide and causes over 10,000 deaths annually. In Brazil, around 4,500 people die each year, making it the fourth leading cause of death by parasites in the country. It is caused by the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which has a life cycle involving mammals and insect vectors known as kissing bugs. This study was conducted in the municipality of Socorro do Piauí and involved a document analysis of triatomine records collected between February and November 2023 during PCDCh campaigns. Data from local FUNASA forms included locality, type of residence, capture site, species, developmental stage, and fecal test results. The aim was to assess the diversity of triatomine species in rural and urban areas and their infection rates by T. cruzi. Currently, about 158 triatomine species are recognized worldwide, with more than 63 identified in Brazil. Four species are considered potential T. cruzi vectors: Triatoma pseudomaculata, T. sordida, T. infestans, and Panstrongylus megistus. In the study area, T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata, P. megistus, and P. lutzi were found, with the first two being most frequent. P. megistus and P. lutzi were recorded in only one locality. Most insects were found indoors. All specimens tested negative for Trypanosoma cruzi. The findings provide relevant information on triatomine diversity and transmission dynamics in the state of Piauí