[Elimination of vectorial transmission of Chagas disease in Brazil]

The control of vectorial transmission of Chagas disease in Brazil has been systematized and structured into a national program since 1975 when regulations were set up on the basis of entomological and sero-epidemiological studies which permitted the delimitation of areas at risk of vectorial transmission in the whole country as well as the orientation of the chemical control of domiciliary vector populations. The authors present the original data collected throughout the years comparing them with the present data. The evaluation reveals a virtual interruption of the transmission for Triatoma infestans and the remaining possibility of transmission, at very low levels, for native vector species in different areas of the country. It is emphasized that it is important to maintain constant entomological vigilance in order to prevent the reestablishment of transmission.