Abstract

SEGURA, Elsa L; ESCOBAR-MESA, Alejandro  and  GRUPO DE ESTUDIO SOBRE LA ENFERMEDAD DE CHAGAS. Epidemiology of Chagas disease in the state of Veracruz. Salud pública Méx [online]. 2005, vol.47, n.3, pp.201-208. ISSN 0036-3634.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the seroprevalence, household risk factors, and entomological indicators, in order to frame control measures in 11 Sanitary Jurisdictions of the state. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study included 281 towns, 2 526 households, and 9782 individuals. Data were collected using a questionnaire. Blood was obtained in filter paper and a search for triatomines was conducted inside of and around dwellings. Prevalence rates were used to quantify exposure to risk factors and seropositivity. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals and Mantel-Haenszel chi-squared tests were obtained. Multivariate analysis was performed with unconditional logistic regression, variables included in the model were those that had a p-value up to 0.20 in the bivariate analysis. The etiologic fraction in the exposed was also obtained. RESULTS: The prevalence of Chagas disease was between 0 and 2.8%. Jurisdictions at a higher risk were Tuxpan, Panuco and Cordoba; Orizaba showed no risk. The main household risk factors were palma/zacate (palmtree, grass leaves) roof and walls, dirt floor, the presence of the vector, and ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: Epidemiological surveillance should emphasize health education, housing improvement, and use of insecticides.

Keywords : Chagas disease [epidemiology]; Mexico.

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