David Larsen (PHP) PI, Field Trials and Optimization of Dried Attractive Bait Stations in Puerto Rico, CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) / DHHS. 9/30/22-9/29/24
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are the principal disease vectors for dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. In addition to feeding on human blood, Ae. aegypti are also nectar feeders. In collaboration with the CDC’s dengue branch in Puerto Rico, Dr. Larsen’s team will test the ability of a dried attractive bait station to kill Ae. aegypti in both experimental houses and the first-ever field trial. The dried attractive bait stations use visual cues to attract Ae. aegypti to land on the device, dried sugar water to illicit an ingestion response, and boric acid that then disrupts the gut lining and kills the mosquito. A more detailed description of the dried attractive bait station can be found here: 10.1186/s13071-020-3930-9.