OVITRAPS AS AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL TOOL FOR MONITORING THE DENGUE VECTOR AEDES AEGYPTI IN THE PRADO NEIGHBORHOOD, PIRIPIRI, PIAUÍ, BRAZIL

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the use of ovitraps as an epidemiological tool for monitoring the dengue vector *Aedes aegypti* in the Prado neighborhood of Piripiri, Piauí. An observational, prospective, and longitudinal field study with a quantitative approach was conducted between January and June 2026. Ovitraps were installed at strategic locations and monitored monthly to collect and count eggs. Based on the data, the Ovitrap Positivity Index (IPO) and the Egg Density Index (IDO) were calculated, and heat maps were generated. A total of 5,432 eggs were recorded during the study period. March showed the highest IPO (90%); April recorded the highest absolute number of eggs (1,676); and May reached the highest IDO (127 eggs per positive trap). The maps revealed a higher concentration of oviposition in the central area of ​​the neighborhood, with hotspots in the eastern and southern sectors. Despite a reduction in indicators in June, 66% of the traps remained positive. It was concluded that ovitraps were effective in identifying the presence, density, and spatial-temporal distribution of the vector, thereby helping to guide dengue surveillance, prevention, and control actions.