Aedes albopictus in the United States: rapid spread of a potential disease vector

Abstract

Aedes albopictus, the Asian "tiger mosquito," was found in Houston, Texas, in 1985. Aedes albopictus is primarily a forest edge inhabiting species that has readily adapted to the container habitats produced by humans. Although not yet incriminated in the spread of any disease in the Americas, it has been repeatedly implicated in epidemic dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever transmission in Asia. It is a competent laboratory vector of La Crosse, yellow fever and other viruses, and can transovarially transmit at least 15 viruses. In 1986, Ae. albopictus was found in many other Texas counties, and in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and Tennessee. In 1987, infestations were discovered in Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, and North Carolina. Aedes albopictus and other exotic species were intercepted in shipments of used tires entering the United States from Asia. All such tires must now be free of mosquitoes before entering the country. Control over the movement and storage of tires, a strong source reduction program, and intensive public education can solve the albopictus problem.