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Poster Session

Poster Session

Poster Session

P26 - Combined development of the Incompatible and Sterile Insect Techniques (IIT–SIT) and first efficacy trial for the control of Aedes albopictus in Mexico

Wednesday, March 25, 2026
12:15 PM - 1:45 PM PDT
Location: Hall A
Abstract:

Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya remain major public health threats in Mexico. The invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus, known as the “Asian tiger mosquito,” has expanded its distribution across more than half of the country’s states and is a competent vector for these arboviruses. Given the limited effectiveness of traditional insecticide-based methods, this project proposes to develop and implement, for the first time in Mexico, a combination of the Incompatible Insect Technique (IIT) and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) for the control of Ae. albopictus. The Biological Control Laboratory for Aedes aegypti (LCB-UADY), in collaboration with CENAPRECE and the Yucatán Health Services, will develop a local line of Mexican Ae. albopictus mosquitoes with three Wolbachia strains (naturally harboring wAlbA, wAlbB, and trans-infected wPip).

The project includes three phases: (1) development and characterization of the local line and community engagement activities; (2) controlled field releases in two suburban areas of Mérida, Yucatán, with active community participation; and (3) entomological monitoring and social evaluation. The expected outcomes include a significant reduction (suppression) in wild populations (mediated by Wolbachia) and the generation of scientific evidence to support scaling up this strategy nationwide. The project will also strengthen local capacities in vector biology and biological control, promoting the training of human resources and the transfer of technology. This sustainable and socially inclusive approach contributes to the National Strategy for the Control of Dengue and Other Arboviroses (2025–2030), reinforcing public health and community well-being in Mexico.