Molecular xenomonitoring using mosquitoes to map lymphatic filariasis after mass drug administration in American Samoa.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mass drug administration (MDA) programs have dramatically reduced lymphatic filariasis (LF) incidence in many areas around the globe, including American Samoa. As infection rates decline and MDA programs end, efficient and sensitive methods for detecting infections are needed to monitor for recrudescence. Molecular methods, collectively termed 'molecular xenomonitoring,' can identify parasite DNA or RNA in human blood-feeding mosquitoes. We tested mosquitoes trapped throughout the inhabited islands of American Samoa to identify areas of possible continuing LF transmission after completion of MDA.

Methodology/principle findings

Mosquitoes were collected using BG Sentinel traps from most of the villages on American Samoa's largest island, Tutuila, and all major vill

SUBMITTER: Schmaedick MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4133231 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature