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First report on human-biting Culex pipiens in Sweden
Jenny C Hesson1,2, Martina Schäfer3, Jan O Lundström4,3
1Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM), Zoonotic Science Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden. jenny.hesson@imbim.uu.se.
Parasites & Vectors
|December 9, 2016
Summary
Human-biting Culex pipiens mosquitoes were identified in southern Sweden, posing a nuisance and signaling increased arbovirus infection risk. This marks the first report of such mosquitoes in Scandinavia, highlighting a growing public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Arbovirology
- Public Health
Background:
- Culex mosquitoes transmit arboviruses like Sindbis virus and West Nile virus, causing European outbreaks.
- Bird-hosted arboviruses pose a significant public health threat in Europe.
Observation:
- The human-biting form of Culex pipiens, identified as Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, caused a significant nuisance in Gothenburg, Sweden.
- Molecular identification confirmed the presence of this specific mosquito biotype.
Findings:
- This study reports the first occurrence of human-biting Culex mosquitoes in Scandinavia.
- The presence of Cx. pipiens biotype molestus indicates a potential shift in mosquito vector behavior.
Implications:
- Increased risk of arbovirus transmission to humans in northern Europe.
- Highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and control of mosquito vectors in the region.
- Suggests potential for wider geographical spread of Cx. pipiens biotype molestus.
