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Updated: Jun 27, 2025
Experimental Viral Infection in Adult Mosquitoes by Oral Feeding and Microinjection
Published on: July 28, 2022
Mayaro virus, a potential threat for Europe: vector competence of autochthonous vector species
Marco Brustolin1, Koen Bartholomeeusen2, Tatiana Rezende2,3
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Entomology Unit, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium. mbrustolin@itg.be.
Background:
Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging alphavirus, primarily transmitted by the mosquito Haemagogus janthinomys in Central and South America. However, recent studies have shown that Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus and various Anopheles mosquitoes can also transmit the virus under laboratory conditions. MAYV causes sporadic outbreaks across the South American region, particularly in areas near forests. Recently, cases have been reported in European and North American travelers returning from endemic areas, raising concerns about potential introductions into new regions. This study aims to assess the vector competence of three potential vectors for MAYV present in Europe.
Methods:
Aedes albopictus from Italy, Anopheles atroparvus from Spain and Culex pipiens biotype molestus from Belgium were exposed to MAYV and maintained under controlled environmental conditions. Saliva was collected through a salivation assay at 7 and 14 days post-infection (dpi), followed by vector dissection. Viral titers were determined using focus forming assays, and infection rates, dissemination rates, and transmission efficiency were calculated.
Results:
Results indicate that Ae. albopictus and An. atroparvus from Italy and Spain, respectively, are competent vectors for MAYV, with transmission possible starting from 7 dpi under laboratory conditions. In contrast, Cx. pipiens bioform molestus was unable to support MAYV infection, indicating its inability to contribute to the transmission cycle.
Conclusions:
In the event of accidental MAYV introduction in European territories, autochthonous outbreaks could potentially be sustained by two European species: Ae. albopictus and An. atroparvus. Entomological surveillance should also consider certain Anopheles species when monitoring MAYV transmission.
Insights
Mayaro virus (MAYV) can be transmitted by European mosquitoes Aedes albopictus and Anopheles atroparvus. Culex pipiens cannot transmit the virus, indicating potential for local MAYV outbreaks in Europe.
Area of Science:
- Arbovirology
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Background:
- Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging alphavirus transmitted by mosquitoes in South America.
- Recent cases in travelers raise concerns about MAYV introduction into Europe.
- This study evaluates the vector competence of European mosquitoes for MAYV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the potential of European mosquito species to transmit Mayaro virus.
- To identify competent vectors for MAYV in Europe.
- To inform public health strategies regarding potential MAYV introductions.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of Aedes albopictus, Anopheles atroparvus, and Culex pipiens to MAYV.
- Saliva collection and viral titer determination at 7 and 14 days post-infection.
- Calculation of infection, dissemination, and transmission rates.
Main Results:
- Aedes albopictus and Anopheles atroparvus demonstrated competence for MAYV transmission starting at 7 days post-infection.
- Culex pipiens biotype molestus was not capable of supporting MAYV infection.
- European mosquito species Ae. albopictus and An. atroparvus can transmit MAYV.
Conclusions:
- Autochthonous Mayaro virus outbreaks in Europe could be sustained by Ae. albopictus and An. atroparvus.
- Entomological surveillance for MAYV should include specific Anopheles species.
- Public health preparedness for MAYV in Europe should consider these competent vectors.
