Distribution of yellow fever vectors from tree holes in howler monkeys (Alouatta clamitans) refuge at Cantareira State Park, São Paulo.

Abstract

Yellow fever is a resurgent arboviral infection that occurred in the last two decades in the State of São Paulo. At that time, human and primate populations were affected. To our knowledge, the sylvatic yellow fever vector species distribution is unknown in the State of São Paulo considering the anthropogenic changes and the spatial distribution of remnant vegetation. In the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo (MRSP) human population should be highly vulnerable and potential vector species would occur in the remnant woodlands. The Cantareira State Park situated in the North Region of MRSP has a spatial configuration where two of the principal components of yellow fever cycle host vertebrates, human and primate populations (howler monkeys) and vector species population are in intrinsic contact. The introduction of a human case should amplify the occurrence of cases in the host vertebrates. We aim to get information about these components by identifying mosquito vector species in the specific breeding places (treeholes), tree holes in resting areas of howler monkeys and identifying tree hole vegetation. We intend to provide information to health decision makers about MRSP as a geographic area of concern to assess preventive policies. (AU)