Tecnologías de la información y comunicación en la educación para la salud en el control del Aedes aegypti

Abstract

Objective. To analyze the incorporation of information and communication technologies (ICT) in health education for the control of Aedes aegypti, the main vector of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Materials and methods. A systematic literature review was conducted using six databases (Medline/Pubmed, SciELO, Lilacs, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, and Wos), following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. Studies published from 2000 to 2024 in English, Spanish, and Portuguese were included. Results. Out of 425 articles, only 12 studies met the selection criteria. These studies evaluated the impact of educational interventions using ICT, described educational experiences with ICT, employed educational methodologies, and behavior change theories. The primary ICT used were mobile applications, which enable instant communication and access to information. Most studies were conducted in urban populations. Conclusions. ICT are increasingly prevalent in society, and their use in health education for the control of Aedes aegypti shows promising effects on knowledge, entomological indices, quality of materials, and acceptability. However, only 12 relevant articles were found, indicating a knowledge gap that needs to be explored. Digital health literacy is essential to avoid inequalities, and further research is needed to make evidence-based decisions in diverse contexts.