[Problems posed by the spread of Aedes albopictus]

Abstract

Ae. albopictus is originated from Asia, and is known as a natural vector of dengue in South-East Asia. Since about 10 years, Ae. albopictus has spread all around the world. It was introduced into the Americas: United States, Mexico, Brazil, Barbados and the dominican Republic; into some Pacific islands as Solomons, Fidji and Australia; into Africa in Nigeria; and finally into Europe: in Italy and Albany. These introductions were made primarily through imported tyres containing eggs and/or larvae of Ae. albopictus. The tyre international trade plays a significant role in the expansion of Ae. albopictus. Furthermore, this mosquito species has a broad ecological spectrum and found suitable conditions either into tropical and temperate countries. In some situations in the Americas, Ae. albopictus has displaced Ae. aegypti. The spread of Ae. albopictus is of great concern because it can experimentally transmit several arboviruses and filarial worms.