26 - Educational Impact of the Aedes aegypti Male Mosquito Release Project with Wolbachia in Puerto Rico: A Community Approach

Abstract: In 2020, the Puerto Rico Vector Control Unit (PRVCU) and Communities Organized for the Prevention of Arboviruses (COPA) collaborated on a project to release male mosquitoes with Wolbachia. This effort involved the weekly release of over 1.5 million male mosquitoes aimed at reducing the Aedes aegypti population in Ponce, Puerto Rico. A key aspect of the project was educating residents about this technique to ensure they understood its benefits and accepted its implementation.

The project focused on monitoring mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. By releasing male mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia in selected communities, it aimed to lower the disease transmission capacity. Community acceptance was essential, as any perception of the method being unsafe or ineffective could hinder its success.

The project included various educational initiatives, such as community meetings, focus groups, and school programs on breeding site prevention and personal protection. Additionally, PRVCU health promoters conducted visits to businesses and went door-to-door in the communities to explain the project and carry out acceptability surveys. Between June 18 and September 4, 2020, they visited over 7,535 homes in 38 COPA communities in Ponce, obtaining verbal consent from more than 2,756 participants. Of those, 84.47% supported the release of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes, 4.43% opposed it, and 49% were familiar with the technique. Additionally, 13% requested more information.

Surveys and interviews assessed community knowledge and perception before and after interventions, revealing positive feedback. The project saw increased community participation, with more attendees at meetings and workshops. Behavioral changes included eliminating breeding sites at home and adopting personal protection measures, indicating a stronger commitment to preventing mosquito-borne diseases.

Overall, the Wolbachia project reduced the Ae. aegypti population by about 50% in Puerto Rico, improving community education and encouraging prevention practices and a commitment to vector control.