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Potential for Canadian mosquitoes to transmit Rift Valley fever virus
M Iranpour1, M J Turell, L R Lindsay
1Public Health Agency of Canada, National Microbiology Laboratory, Manitoba, Canada.
Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association
|February 15, 2012
Summary
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) could spread in Canada. Three mosquito species, Culex tarsalis, Aedes sticticus, and Coquillettidia perturbans, showed potential for RVFV transmission in laboratory studies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Arbovirology
- Public Health
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) spread highlights arbovirus introduction risks in North America.
- Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) causes significant outbreaks in Africa, impacting human health and economies.
- Limited data exists on RVFV transmission potential by Canadian mosquito vectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the vector competence of mosquito species near Winnipeg, Manitoba, for RVFV.
- To determine if local mosquito populations can transmit RVFV should it be introduced to Canada.
Main Methods:
- Mosquitoes were exposed to RVFV via feeding on infected hamsters.
- Infection, dissemination, and transmission capabilities were assessed after incubation.
- Virus detection in mosquito saliva was performed using capillary tubes.
Main Results:
- Culex tarsalis, Aedes sticticus, and Coquillettidia perturbans demonstrated RVFV transmission capability.
- These species were capable of transmitting RVFV under laboratory conditions.
- Virus was detected in the saliva of exposed mosquitoes.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary findings suggest three mosquito species in Canada may act as RVFV vectors.
- These species, Culex tarsalis, Aedes sticticus, and Coquillettidia perturbans, could facilitate RVFV spread if introduced.
- Further research is needed to confirm field transmission potential.
