Comparison of Aedes albopictus Monitoring Methods and Dengue Risk Assessment in Central China

Abstract

Dengue fever has been attracting more attention in recent years. Dengue fever is mainly transmitted to humans by the Aedes albopictus mosquito and disease patterns are influenced by its wide distribution and high density during the summer season in China. Dengue epidemics in central China previously occurred exclusively in rural areas, while these recent outbreaks mostly occurred in urban areas in southern China. Until now, the presence of Aedes Albopictus in central China has been scarcely acknowledged. This study is a survey of Aedes and attempts to clarify this new distribution pattern using the Breteau Index (BI) method and a polylactic-glycolic acid (PLGA) copolymer mosquito trap simultaneously in urban and rural areas. The BI can provide a direct value on Aedes density compared to CI. Rural areas are at a higher risk for dengue compared to urban areas in central China. Our findings provide a basis for the prevention and control of dengue vectors, as well as providing information for control strategies for other infectious diseases transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Vector control strategy related to the management of diseases transmitted by Aedes should be based on the distribution patterns of different vector species, particularly in the rural environments in central China.