Geographic expansion of the introduced Aedes albopictus and other native Aedes species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Aedes albopictus has been reported in several Central African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The establishment of this mosquito species poses a serious threat as a vector of various infectious diseases. Although Ae. albopictus has been reported in the western region of the DRC, information about its distribution is still scarce in the country. The aim of this study was to investigate the current nationwide distribution of the invasive Ae. albopictus, as well as other native Aedes mosquitoes, in the DRC and to identify suitable areas for its future expansion.

Methods

Two entomological surveys were conducted in 2017-2019 and 2022. Based on the occurrence sites of Ae. albopictus, important environmental variables were identified. The

SUBMITTER: Vulu F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10811949 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature