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Assessing the Sylvatic Yellow Fever Vectors in Southern Brazil
Sabrina Fernandes Cardoso1,2, Larissa Akemi Oliveira Kikuti1, Andre Akira Gonzaga Yoshikawa1
1Departamento de Biologia Celular, Embriologia e Genética, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-000, SC, Brazil.
Insects
|May 26, 2026
Summary
This study identified potential yellow fever virus (YFV) vectors in southern Brazil, with *Haemagogus leucocelaenus* as a likely primary vector. The detection of YFV in *Sabethes albiprivus* highlights its role in sylvatic transmission.
Area of Science:
- Arbovirology
- Medical Entomology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Yellow fever (YF) is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the yellow fever virus (YFV).
- Sylvatic YF outbreaks pose significant public health risks, particularly in Brazil.
- Understanding vector dynamics is crucial for disease prevention and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mosquito (Culicidae) species composition in a YF-affected region of southern Brazil.
- To detect the presence of natural yellow fever virus (YFV) infection in collected mosquito populations.
- To identify potential vectors of YFV in the sylvatic transmission cycle.
Main Methods:
- Entomological collections were performed in five municipalities in Santa Catarina, Brazil, between January and February 2023.
- Mosquitoes were identified to species level, and female culicids were tested for YFV using RT-LAMP.
- Minimum Infection Rate (MIR) was calculated for positive mosquito pools.
Main Results:
- A total of 4352 female mosquitoes from at least 32 species were collected.
- *Haemagogus leucocelaenus* was found in all sampled areas, suggesting it as a primary vector.
- Natural YFV infection was detected in *Sabethes albiprivus* (MIR = 11.6), marking a new record for southern Brazil and indicating its role as a secondary vector.
Conclusions:
- The presence of YFV in sylvatic vectors, particularly *Hg. leucocelaenus* and *Sa. albiprivus*, indicates ongoing epidemiological risk in the region.
- Enhanced entomological surveillance and expanded YF vaccination coverage are recommended for affected and surrounding areas.
- The findings highlight the dynamic nature of YFV transmission and the importance of continued vector monitoring.
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