New technologies for identification and surveillance of Chagas disease vectors

Abstract

Technologies are essential for surveillance of vector-borne diseases. The increasing frequency of triatomine house invasion in the Americas highlights the need to strengthen surveillance strategies. This narrative review examines how emerging technologies can improve identification and reporting of Chagas disease vectors. We analyzed studies published between 2015 and 2025 on digital tools for triatomine surveillance. Technologies were grouped by purpose: (1) identification apps (TriatoKey, TriatoDex, automated identification); (2) community engagement platforms (WhatsBarb, TriatoChat); and (3) institutional surveillance systems (SISVetor-Chagas, GeoVin, Triatomine Information Posts). We summarize their characteristics, applications, knowledge gaps, and potential integration with national surveillance systems, and discuss implications for public health policy. Digital innovation and citizen-based surveillance may support improved prevention and control of vector-borne Chagas disease.