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Mosquito Vectors (Diptera: Culicidae) and Mosquito-Borne Diseases in North Africa
Amira Nebbak1, Lionel Almeras2,3,4, Philippe Parola2,4
1Centre de Recherche Scientifique et Technique en Analyses Physico-Chimiques (CRAPC), BP 384, Zone Industrielle, Bou-Ismail 42004, Algeria.
Abstract:
Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are of significant public health importance because of their ability to transmit major diseases to humans and animals, and are considered as the world's most deadly arthropods. In recent decades, climate change and globalization have promoted mosquito-borne diseases' (MBDs) geographic expansion to new areas, such as North African countries, where some of these MBDs were unusual or even unknown. In this review, we summarize the latest data on mosquito vector species distribution and MBDs affecting both human and animals in North Africa, in order to better understand the risks associated with the introduction of new invasive mosquito species such as Aedes albopictus. Currently, 26 mosquito species confirmed as pathogen vectors occur in North Africa, including Aedes (five species), Culex (eight species), Culiseta (one species) and Anopheles (12 species). These 26 species are involved in the circulation of seven MBDs in North Africa, including two parasitic infections (malaria and filariasis) and five viral infections (WNV, RVF, DENV, SINV and USUV). No bacterial diseases have been reported so far in this area. This review may guide research studies to fill the data gaps, as well as helping with developing effective vector surveillance and controlling strategies by concerned institutions in different involved countries, leading to cooperative and coordinate vector control measures.
Insights
Mosquito-borne diseases are expanding into North Africa due to climate change. This review details 26 vector species and seven diseases, aiding surveillance and control strategies for public health.
Area of Science:
- Medical entomology
- Public health
- Infectious disease epidemiology
Background:
- Mosquitoes (Culicidae) are critical vectors of diseases globally.
- Climate change and globalization are driving the expansion of mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) into new regions, including North Africa.
- North Africa is experiencing an increase in MBDs previously uncommon or unknown in the area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on mosquito vector species distribution in North Africa.
- To identify MBDs affecting humans and animals in the region.
- To assess risks posed by invasive species like *Aedes albopictus*.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent data on mosquito vectors and MBDs in North Africa.
- Compilation of confirmed vector species and associated diseases.
- Analysis of current disease distribution and invasive species presence.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six confirmed mosquito vector species are present in North Africa: 5 *Aedes*, 8 *Culex*, 1 *Culiseta*, and 12 *Anopheles*.
- These vectors are implicated in seven MBDs: malaria, filariasis (parasitic), and West Nile Virus (WNV), Rift Valley Fever (RVF), Dengue Virus (DENV), Sindbis Virus (SINV), and Usutu Virus (USUV) (viral).
- No bacterial MBDs have been reported in North Africa to date.
Conclusions:
- The findings highlight significant MBD risks in North Africa, necessitating targeted research and surveillance.
- Effective vector control strategies require coordinated, cooperative measures among involved countries.
- This review provides a foundation for future research and public health interventions against MBDs in the region.
