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. 2016 Sep;13(3):525-534.
doi: 10.1007/s10393-016-1153-5. Epub 2016 Aug 11.

Habitat Management to Reduce Human Exposure to Trypanosoma cruzi and Western Conenose Bugs (Triatoma protracta)

Lisa Shender  1 , Michael Niemela  2 , Patricia Conrad  1 , Tracey Goldstein  1 , Jonna Mazet  3
Affiliations

Habitat Management to Reduce Human Exposure to Trypanosoma cruzi and Western Conenose Bugs (Triatoma protracta)

Lisa Shender et al. Ecohealth. 2016 Sep.

Abstract

Chagas disease, which manifests as cardiomyopathy and severe gastrointestinal dysfunction, is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, a vector-borne parasite. In California, the vector Triatoma protracta frequently colonizes woodrat (Neotoma spp.) lodges, but may also invade nearby residences, feeding upon humans and creating the dual risk of bite-induced anaphylaxis and T. cruzi transmission. Our research aimed to assess T. cruzi presence in woodrats in a previously unstudied northern California area, statistically evaluate woodrat microhabitat use with respect to vegetation parameters, and provide guidance for habitat modifications to mitigate public health risks associated with Tr. protracta exposure. Blood samples from big-eared woodrats (N. macrotis) trapped on rural private properties yielded a T. cruzi prevalence of 14.3%. Microhabitat analyses suggest that modifying vegetation to reduce understory density within a 40 meter radius of human residences might minimize woodrat lodge construction within this buffer area, potentially decreasing human exposure to Tr. protracta.

Keywords: California; Chagas disease; Microhabitat; Neotoma; Triatoma; Trypanosoma cruzi.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Suggested guidelines for habitat modifications to deter big-eared woodrats (Neotoma macrotis) from constructing lodges near human homes located on rural properties in the foothills of northern California.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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