Review of dengue vectors in Cambodia: distribution, bionomics, vector competence, control and insecticide resistance

Dengue fever is one of the most prevalent mosquito-borne diseases in Cambodia. Until now, no specific vaccine nor antiviral treatment exists the virus causing Dengue fever. Consequently, its prevention relies only on vector control strategies. However, efficient vector control in turn relies on a good knowledge of the biology of the vector species. Therefore, this study aims to provide the first review of the distribution, ecology, meteorological impacts, trophic behavior, vector competence, vector control and insecticide resistance of dengue vector species in Cambodia.

A systematic search of the Google Scholar and PubMed databases was conducted for relevant published articles. Of the 610 published articles originally identified, 70 articles were ultimately selected for inclusion in this review. We also included new data from unpublished research conducted in Cambodia between 2017 and 2023 related to dengue vector bionomics.

Eleven Aedes (Stegomyia) mosquito species have been recorded in Cambodia, including a new species described in 2024. Four species are associated with dengue virus transmission, among which Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are the main vectors and Ae. malayensis and Ae. scutellaris are considered to be potential vectors. Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are present in all provinces of Cambodia. Aedes albopictus shows a preference for forest, rural and suburban areas, while Ae. aegypti is mostly found in urban and suburban areas. The distribution of these two species is also influenced by meteorological factors, seasonality and the availability of breeding habitats and blood meals. Both species are predominant during the rainy season, and their respective density is impacted by precipitation and temperature. Aedes aegypti is characterized as anthropophilic, while Ae. albopictus exhibits zooanthropophilic behavior, and both species have been observed to be predominantly diurnal. In addition, they were found to be highly resistant to the insecticides used in Cambodia for their control, such as temephos for larvae and deltamethrin and permethrin for adult mosquitoes.

This review provides extensive and important knowledge on dengue vectors in Cambodia. This knowledge is derived not only from published research articles but also from many recent studies in Cambodia on the bionomics of dengue vector species. The review provides valuable information for use by public health authorities on dengue virus transmission and to develop better vector control strategies in the country.