Introduction:

Aedes aegypti is the most important culicid worldwide in terms of transmission of arbovirus infections of a high impact on public health.

Objective:

Broaden ecological knowledge about Aedes aegypti in the Dominican Republic, particularly about the containers and other sites where immature development occurs.

Methods:

The study extended from October to December 2017. One hundred households were randomly surveyed, checking all the containers with a potential to host mosquito larvae and/or pupae both inside and outside the house. Quantification was made of the type and total of positive containers according to their location in each household, to estimate the percentage of representativeness and the pupal index per container identified (PICI) when pupae were found in them.

Results:

Aedes aegypti was found to be present in 41% of the houses visited. Of the 419 containers analyzed, 74 were positive for larvae and/or pupae (17.66%). Containers were classified into 28 types according to their function and material. Quantitatively, permanent containers were the best represented with 54.05%. The largest captures were made in the area around the house. Plastic water tanks were the most relevant, with 28.37% of the total positive containers and a high PICI.

Conclusions:

Results show high levels of infestation in Jarabacoa households. These should be controlled to reduce the risk of arbovirus infection transmission. Control of artificial breeding sites, such as disposable containers, tires and especially water tanks, is the cornerstone of any effort to prevent these diseases.

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