Current Sponsored Research Projects

A vector behavior-modifying strategy to minimize contact between Aedes aegypti and human hosts

Effective dates:  April 2008 – current
Funding Source:  Gates Foundation
Tulane's Role:  Dr. Valerie Paz Soldan is social scientist on the team
Region or Country (ies):  Peru and Thailand
Principal Investigator(s):  Nicole Achee (Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences)

The goal of this study is to develop an effective vector behavior-modifying strategy for the control of dengue in Peru and Thailand.  The focus is on preventing the vector from entering a home to feed (spatial repellency) or cause an escape response before biting (contact irritancy) using low levels of chemical without selection pressure for resistance (toxicity), and a peri-domestic trap to “attract” mosquitoes outside of homes.