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Allan Pitta Seabra1, João Paulo Sales Oliveira-Correia1, Quezia Moura Oliveira2
1Laboratório Nacional e Internacional de Referência em Taxonomia de Triatomíneos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil.
Background:
Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by kissing bugs.
Methods:
We investigated the presence of Panstrongylus megistus in Ilha Grande, RJ. The insects was analyzed for T. cruzi infection and blood meal sources (BMSs).
Results:
Morphological identification confirmed P. megistus. Molecular analysis revealed Gallus gallus as the BMS, with no T. cruzi infection.
Conclusions:
These findings represent the first record of P. megistus in the region, expanding its distribution, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and implementation of physical barriers to reduce transmission risk. Strengthening health education and surveillance is crucial for preventing the disease.