[Rhodnius prolixus in Nicaragua: geographical distribution, control, and surveillance, 1998-2009].

Objective: Present an overview of the control of Rhodnius prolixus, the principal vector in the transmission of Chagas' disease in Central America, during the period 1998-2009 in Nicaragua. Describe the vector control carried out and the geographical distribution of the infested localities.

Methods: The available information in Nicaragua's Ministry of Health was studied and analyzed. The geographical distribution of R. prolixus was visualized using the Quantum GIS 1.5.0 map visualization program.

Results: It was determined that 59 localities in 14 municipalities of 8 departments had a history of R. prolixus infestation between 1998 and 2009. The altitude of the infested localities ranges between 160 and 1 414 meters above sea level. A total of 56 localities have been treated with more than two cycles of chemical control. The presence of the vector was detected in the second spraying cycle, but it was not found in any locality during the third cycle.

Conclusions: The greatest geographical concentration of R. prolixus was found in two departments in the northern region: Madriz and Nueva Segovia. There were fewer infested localities in Nicaragua than in other Central American countries. Chemical control has been successful in the localities treated, but the institutional and community surveillance system needs to be strengthened to monitor R. prolixus reinfestation and expand vector control coverage.