[Biological factors influencing infectious diseases transmitted by invasive species of mosquitoes]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 17, 2026

Experimental Viral Infection in Adult Mosquitoes by Oral Feeding and Microinjection
Published on: July 28, 2022
Vanda Boštíková1, Markéta Pasdiorová, Jan Marek
1Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Military Science, University of Defence, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic,
Abstract:
Studies focused on arbovirus diseases transmitted by invasive species of mosquitoes have become increasingly significant in recent years, due to the fact that these vectors have successfully migrated to Europe and become established in the region. Mosquitoes, represented by more than 3 200 species, occur naturally worldwide, except in Antarctica. They feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals and by this route, they are capable of transmitting dangerous diseases. Some species can travel a distance of 10 km per night and can fly continuously for up to 4 hours at a speed of 1-2 km/h. Most species are active at night, in the evening or morning. It usually takes a mosquito female about 50 seconds to penetrate the skin of mammals and the subsequent blood meal usually takes about 2.5 minutes. Mosquitoes live for several weeks or months, depending on the environmental conditions. The VectorNet project is a European network of information exchange and sharing of data relating to the geographical distribution of arthropod vectors and transmission of infectious agents between human populations and animals. It aims at the development of strategic plans and vaccination policies which are the main tasks of this time, as well as the development and application of new disinfectants to control vector populations.
Insights
Invasive mosquitoes in Europe transmit arbovirus diseases. The VectorNet project aims to control these vectors through data sharing and developing new control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Invasive mosquito species are increasingly established in Europe, posing a significant threat for arbovirus disease transmission.
- Mosquitoes, with over 3,200 species globally, are vectors for numerous dangerous diseases, impacting both human and animal populations.
- Understanding mosquito behavior, including flight capabilities and feeding habits, is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing significance of arbovirus diseases transmitted by invasive mosquitoes in Europe.
- To introduce the VectorNet project as a European initiative for data exchange on arthropod vectors and disease transmission.
- To outline the project's objectives, including strategic planning, vaccination policies, and the development of vector control methods.
Main Methods:
- Data collection and analysis on the geographical distribution of arthropod vectors.
- Information exchange and sharing within a European network (VectorNet).
- Research and development of new disinfectants for vector population control.
Main Results:
- Invasive mosquito species have successfully migrated and established populations in Europe.
- Mosquitoes are capable of transmitting dangerous arbovirus diseases.
- The VectorNet project facilitates strategic planning and the development of control measures.
Conclusions:
- The establishment of invasive mosquitoes in Europe necessitates urgent attention due to arbovirus disease risks.
- The VectorNet project is vital for coordinating efforts in monitoring, strategic planning, and developing effective vector control strategies.
- Continued research and application of new control methods are essential to mitigate the public health threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases.
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