Citizen Science Detection and Characterization of Mosquito-Borne Viruses

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Public Health
• Entomology

Background:

• Citizen science is utilized for mosquito surveillance, providing data on invasive species and potential pathogens.
• Concerns exist regarding data quality, reliability, and sustainability in citizen-led surveillance efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the cost-effectiveness and contribution of citizen scientists to mosquito surveillance in remote areas.
• To develop a spatial database of native and invasive mosquito species.
• To identify circulating viruses within mosquito populations.

Main Methods:

• Mosquito samples were collected by citizen scientists in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.
• Virological screening was performed on collected mosquito pools.
• Geographic patterns of virus circulation were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Citizen scientists provided mosquito samples cost-effectively from remote locations.
• 6.2% of mosquito pools tested positive for snowshoe hare virus (SHV) or Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV)-like viruses.
• Geographic patterns in SHV circulation were identified, and a novel JCV-like virus was discovered.

Conclusions:

• Citizen science is a valuable and cost-effective tool for mosquito surveillance and ecological research.
• Public participation is crucial for detecting viruses in native species and understanding disease ecology.
• Despite challenges, citizen science is indispensable for public and animal health research.