Assessment of the Biohazards of the Blackfly Problem in Northeastern Panama, Including Possible Presence of Onchocerciasis.
Abstract
A study to investigate a serious blackfly problem in eastern Panama was conducted during the period 1 April 1976 to 30 September 1976. Following is a summary of the findings: (a) Intense blackfly activity in eastern Panama took place inside a belt in the watershed of the Bayano, Chucunaque and Sabanas rivers in eastern Panama and in Darien province. (b) The only species of blackfly collected biting man in numbers was Simulium sanguineum. (c) Biting activity was very local probably due to short flight range of important species, thus leaving many areas within the belt free of blackflies. (d) Biting activity was restricted to the rainy season reaching a peak in November. (e) Physical examinations for onchocerciasis have been negative. (f) Culicoides sandflies were also taken in large numbers, their attack rate being much higher than that of blackflies. (g) The latter were present in significant numbers during the entire daylight period, while Culicoides sandflies occurred in numbers only during early morning (06-08 hours) and in early evening (18-20 hours).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA054094
Entities
People
- Pedro Galindo