SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES FOR CONTROL OF THE Aedes aegypti VECTOR IN REPLACING THE USE OF LARVICIDES AND INSECTICIDES IN THE CARIRI CEARENSE REGION: EFFICIENT SCIENTIFIC DISSEMINATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

This article describes activities carried out within the "TEKO PORÃ" program, an extension initiative carried out in partnership between the Federal University of Cariri (UFCA) and the Municipality of Brejo Santo, Ceará. The program's main objective is to promote sustainable practices for controlling the A. aegypti mosquito, which transmits diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and zika, as well as educating the local community about environmental issues. It is emphasized that addressing this problem in a sustainable way is essential to minimize damage to the environment and avoid mosquito resistance to traditional insecticides. Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of using fish, such as piabas, in biological mosquito control, in contrast to traditional chemical insecticides. Biological control was presented as a more effective and less harmful approach to the environment and human health. The article also described the activities carried out by the program, including pedagogical dialogues, participation in educational and scientific events, and the large-scale production of biological agents, such as fish, to control A. aegypti. Raising community awareness about the dangers of insecticides and larvicides and promoting alternative techniques were essential aspects of the activities. Finally, the article emphasizes the positive social impacts of the "TEKO PORÃ" program and its role in teacher training, highlighting the interaction between the university and society as fundamental to effectively address the challenges related to A. aegypti and contribute to a more sustainable environment healthy.