Mosquito Vector Competence for Japanese Encephalitis Virus.

Area of Science:

• * Veterinary Entomology
• * Medical Entomology
• * Virology

Background:

• * Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a zoonotic pathogen prevalent in East and Southeast Asia.
• * Mosquitoes are the primary vectors for JEV transmission.
• * Understanding the diversity of JEV mosquito vectors is critical for disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To systematically review and summarize knowledge on JEV mosquito vector species diversity.
• * To identify confirmed and potential JEV vectors based on existing literature.
• * To highlight variations in vector competence study designs.

Main Methods:

• * Systematic analysis of published reports on JEV in field-caught mosquitoes.
• * Review of experimental vector competence studies for JEV.
• * Classification of mosquito species based on documented vector competence and field evidence.

Main Results:

• * 14 mosquito species confirmed as JEV vectors, demonstrating experimental competence and field evidence.
• * 11 additional mosquito species identified with experimental JEV vector competence but lacking field transmission data.
• * Significant diversity in JEV vector species and study methodologies observed.

Conclusions:

• * A wide range of confirmed and potential JEV mosquito vectors exist.
• * Vector competence studies should be context-specific, using local vectors, virus strains, and climate conditions.
• * Harmonizing experimental designs will improve data comparability for vector control.