Context WINSA

Vector-borne diseases, particularly arboviral infections, have (re)emerged in South America with increasing prevalence and severity. Despite the introduction of innovative vector control strategies—such as Wolbachia and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT)—disease prevention still relies heavily on insecticide-based vector control. However, the region has seen a 120% increase in insecticide use over the past 20 years across both agriculture and public health sectors. This widespread usage has accelerated the development of insecticide resistance across all major public health vectors, including mosquitoes, sandflies, midges, and triatomines. Urgent action is needed to monitor the emergence and spread of resistance in arthropod vectors and to ensure timely and effective responses. The WINSA network was established to serve as a regional platform for fostering collaboration, coordinating research on shared priorities, and developing sustainable insecticide resistance management strategies in South America.