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A Review of the Use of Pyriproxyfen for Controlling Aedes aegypti in Argentina

  • Updates in Parasitology from Argentina (A Sanchez and A Toloza, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Aedes aegypti (L.) is the main vector of dengue, yellow fever, Zika, and chikungunya viruses in many parts of the world affecting millions of people worldwide each year. Its control is mostly aimed at the larval stages (removal of breeding sites, larviciding, and community education) to reduce the population of new adults. This review is a compilation of recent studies carried out in Argentina with the insect growth regulator (IGR) pyriproxyfen applied for controlling different life stages of the mosquito Aedes aegypti.

Recent Findings

Pyriproxyfen (PPF) is an increasingly used hormone analog that prevents juvenile Aedes mosquitoes from becoming adults and being incapable of transmitting dengue. It exhibits a high level of activity against mosquito larvae inhibiting adult emergence at very low doses. Additionally, effects on adult mosquito fecundity and fertility after IGR treatments were identified.

Summary

IGRs have been reported to be selective against target species, with considerable safety to the environment and nontarget organisms, including mammals. Its high efficacy as a larvicide at very low doses, together with its proven effects on adult reproduction, makes it an excellent candidate for use within an integrated vector management program.

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Acknowledgements

This study received financial support by the ANPCyT of Argentina (PICT 2017-1788/PICT 2018-0898). P.V.G. and L.V.H. are members of the CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas). J.V.M has a grant from CONICET.

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  1. Centro de Investigaciones de Plagas E Insecticidas (CONICET-CITEDEF), Juan Bautista de La Salle 4397, B1603ALO, Villa Martelli, Buenos Aires, Argentina

    Laura V. Harburguer, Jessica Mendoza & Paula V. Gonzalez

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  1. Laura V. Harburguer
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  3. Paula V. Gonzalez
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Correspondence to Paula V. Gonzalez.

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Harburguer, L.V., Mendoza, J. & Gonzalez, P.V. A Review of the Use of Pyriproxyfen for Controlling Aedes aegypti in Argentina. Curr Trop Med Rep 9, 261–266 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-022-00278-1

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