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Experimental transmission of Mayaro virus by Aedes aegypti

Kanya C Long1, Sarah A Ziegler, Saravanan Thangamani

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA. kclong@ucdavis.edu

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|October 7, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can transmit Mayaro virus (MAYV), a pathogen causing Mayaro fever. While high virus levels in humans may limit urban transmission, the study confirms mosquito vector competence.

Area of Science:

  • Arbovirology
  • Medical Entomology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Mayaro virus (MAYV) outbreaks are linked to sylvatic transmission cycles in South America.
  • Urban transmission potential of MAYV remains a public health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the vector competence of Aedes aegypti, a common urban mosquito, for transmitting Mayaro virus (MAYV).

Main Methods:

  • Laboratory studies exposed Aedes aegypti from Iquitos, Peru, to MAYV via blood meals.
  • Mosquitoes were tested for oral susceptibility, viral RNA, and transmission efficiency through saliva collection and mouse inoculation.
  • Viral RNA levels in viremic humans were quantified using real-time PCR.

Main Results:

  • Aedes aegypti demonstrated variable oral susceptibility to MAYV, with infection rates up to 84% at high virus titers.
  • Infected mosquitoes transmitted MAYV, with 70% showing transmission competence via saliva.
  • Viral RNA in human blood ranged from 2.7 to 5.3 log(10) PFU equivalents/mL.

Conclusions:

  • Aedes aegypti possesses the vector competence to transmit Mayaro virus.
  • While high MAYV titers in viremic humans might limit initial urban transmission, the demonstrated competence suggests potential for urban MAYV cycles.

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