The invasive mosquito species Aedes albopictus: current knowledge and future perspectives

Abstract

One of the most dynamic events in public health is being mediated by the global spread of the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus. Its rapid expansion and vectorial capacity for various arboviruses affect an increasingly larger proportion of the world population. Responses to the challenges of controlling this vector are expected to be enhanced by an increased knowledge of its biology, ecology, and vector competence. Details of population genetics and structure will allow following, and possibly predicting, the geographical and temporal dynamics of its expansion, and will inform the practical operations of control programs. Experts are now coming together to describe the history, characterize the present circumstances, and collaborate on future efforts to understand and mitigate this emerging public health threat.

Keywords: Aedes albopictus; arboviruses; expansion; public health; vector control.

Figure 1

Aedes albopictus adult male (A) and female (B). Courtesy of Centro Agricoltura Ambiente, Crevalcore, Italy.

Figure 2

Aedes albopictus distribution range. Map indicating the first reports (interception on imports, local captures, and documented endemic populations) of Ae. albopictus by country (political boundaries). Record data are based on published literature [4,6]. In Madagascar, La Reunion, and Hawaii, Ae. albopictus was introduced in the 18th–19th or early 20th centuries.

Figure 3

Aedes albopictus breeding sites. Examples include (A) metal containers, (B) terrarium, (C) stone holes, (D) ceramic vessels, (E) plastic containers, (F) gutters, (G) used tire dumps, (H) surface accumulated water, (I) disposable containers, (J) parking poundings, (K) flower pot trays, and (L) metal containers. Images courtesy of Romeo Bellini (Centro Agricoltura Ambiente, Crevalcore, Italy), Marco E. Metzger (California Department of Public Health, USA), and Xiaoguang Chen (Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China).