Recommendations for Implementing Innovative Technologies to Control Aedes aegypti: Population Suppression Using a Combination of the Incompatible and Sterile Insect Techniques (IIT-SIT), Based on the Mexican Experience/Initiative

Abstract

The future of Aedes aegypti control emphasizes the transition from traditional insecticides toward more sustainable and multisectoral integrated strategies, like using Wolbachia-carrying mosquitoes for population suppression or replacement. We reviewed the integration of the successful Mexican initiative, "Mosquitos Buenos", with the key challenges outlined in the PAHO guidelines for incorporating innovative approaches into vector control programs. These challenges include establishing essential infrastructure, training personnel, managing field operations, and fostering community support. Our experience provides critical evidence to support the strategic National Plan for implementing and integrating IIT-SIT technologies to control Ae. aegypti and dengue. Furthermore, this experience serves as a foundation for other countries in the region interested in adopting these technologies. It underscores the importance of strategic planning, multisectoral collaboration, continuous evaluation, and scaling up innovative tools to ensure their long-term effectiveness and sustainability in urban areas where Aedes vectors and the diseases they transmit are endemic.

Keywords: Aedes aegypti; Mexico; Wolbachia; incompatible insect technique (IIT); sterile insect technique (SIT).

Figure 1

The project´s slogan “Mosquitos buenos and Uts k’oxol”, which translates to “good mosquitoes” from Spanish and Mayan, respectively.