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2507001011
  • Open Access
  • Review
Triatomine Bugs: History, Control, and Citizen Surveillance
  • Cleber Galvão

Received: 11 Jun 2025 | Revised: 13 Jul 2025 | Accepted: 16 Jul 2025 | Published: 25 Jul 2025

Abstract

Triatomine bugs (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) are vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease endemic to the Americas. This review presents a historical overview of triatomine discovery, their biological and ecological characteristics, and the evolution of vector control strategies. It discusses the success and challenges of multinational initiatives that reduced transmission in several countries, while highlighting emerging issues such as species hybridization, insecticide resistance, urbanization of vectors, and oral transmission routes. A key focus is placed on the role of citizen science in enhancing surveillance and control, especially in regions with limited institutional capacity. The use of mobile applications, digital platforms, and participatory campaigns has proven valuable in improving vector detection, engaging communities, and generating epidemiologically relevant data. Additionally, recent technological advances, such as ecological niche modeling and automated image recognition, have the potential to strengthen integrated vector management. Given the dynamic epidemiological landscape, the article emphasizes the importance of intersectoral collaboration, health education, and the incorporation of One Health principles to ensure sustainable control of Chagas disease.

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10.53941/dbgs.2025.100008
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Volume 1, Issue 3
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Galvão, C. Triatomine Bugs: History, Control, and Citizen Surveillance. Disease Biology, Genetics, and Socioecology 2025, 1 (3), 8. https://doi.org/10.53941/dbgs.2025.100008.
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