A natural sandfly repellent developed from Genipa americana "huito" (Rubiaceae) in Peru

[Extract] Sandflies of the genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus (Diptera: Psychodidae) are worldwide vectors of Leishmaniosis, Bartonellosis and other protozoal, bacterial and viral diseases. The transmission of these pathogens occurs when infected sandflies feed on humans. Lutzomyia is present in Peru, where 140 species have been reported to date, 25 % of these species are anthropophilic to some degree. In Peru in 2002, leishmaniosis affected 6500 persons, and bartonellosis affected 3100 persons, the latter with a 2.3 % mortality. The number of sandfly bites a person can receive in the sandfly peak season in a single night can be up to 300 in the Andes, and over 1000 in the tropical forest (Pérez et al. 1993; Pérez & Ogusuku, 1995). The usual control measures against sandflies and mosquitoes currently applied in Peru, residual spraying inside houses and impregnated bednets, do not protect during outdoor activities at the time of the highest sandfly activity (18:00-22:00), the crucial time for the transmission of pathogens. A natural repellent to be used outdoors is proposed here as a protection against sandflies.