SURVEY IN THE SOUTHEASTERN USA REVEALS THE NEED FOR IMPROVED INVASIVE MOSQUITO SURVEILLANCE

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Public Health Surveillance
• Vector-Borne Diseases

Background:

• Invasive mosquito species are significant vectors of pathogens causing human and animal diseases globally.
• Arboviral diseases transmitted by invasive mosquitoes have notably increased in the southeastern USA.
• Early detection of invasive mosquitoes is a key component of integrated mosquito management (IMM).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the invasive mosquito surveillance capacity in the southern USA.
• To identify gaps in IMM programs and surveillance techniques within the Southeast.
• To inform decision-makers for improving early detection and rapid response to invasive mosquitoes.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in 2021 by the Mosquito Biodiversity Enhancement and Control of Non-native Species (BEACONS) working group.
• 90 mosquito control agencies (26% response rate) across seven southern US states were surveyed.
• Data collected focused on IMM program status and surveillance techniques for mosquitoes and pathogens.

Main Results:

• Significant gaps were identified in invasive mosquito surveillance, hindering early detection and rapid response.
• A notable lack of arbovirus testing was observed, potentially leading to inadequate risk assessment.
• The findings highlight deficiencies in the Southeast's capacity to manage invasive mosquito populations and associated disease risks.

Conclusions:

• Current invasive mosquito surveillance in the Southeast has critical gaps that compromise public health.
• Increased arbovirus testing and improved surveillance strategies are necessary for effective risk assessment and management.
• The survey data provides a foundation for enhancing mosquito control and disease prevention efforts in the region.