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Vector Competence Analyses on Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes using Zika Virus
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Three modes of transmission of Ross River virus by Aedes vigilax (Skuse)

B H Kay

    The Australian Journal of Experimental Biology and Medical Science
    |June 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    The saltmarsh mosquito, Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax, can transmit Ross River virus. This mosquito species shows potential for virus survival through transovarial transmission.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical entomology
    • Virology
    • Disease ecology

    Background:

    • Ross River virus (RRV) is a significant mosquito-borne pathogen in Australia.
    • The saltmarsh mosquito, Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax, is a primary vector of concern in coastal regions.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the vector competence of Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax for Ross River virus.
    • To determine the efficiency and kinetics of Ross River virus transmission by this mosquito species.
    • To explore potential virus survival mechanisms within the mosquito vector.

    Main Methods:

    • Mosquitoes (Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax) were fed a blood meal containing a specific strain of Ross River virus (T48).
    • Infection rates and transmission efficiency were assessed by feeding infected mosquitoes to susceptible suckling mice.
    • Virus proliferation within mosquitoes was monitored over time post-infection.
    • Ovaries of infected female mosquitoes and their progeny were analyzed for evidence of transovarial transmission.

    Main Results:

    • Approximately 15% of Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax mosquitoes mechanically transmitted the T48 strain of Ross River virus.
    • The mosquito population exhibited moderate susceptibility to infection (ID50 = 10(4.5+/-0.1) suckling mouse LD50/mosquito).
    • Virus proliferation in mosquitoes enabled transmission starting 4 days post-ingestion, with peak transmission (50-57%) observed at 10 days.
    • Preliminary data suggest transovarial transmission of Ross River virus in Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax.

    Conclusions:

    • Aedes (Ochlerotatus) vigilax is an effective mechanical vector of Ross River virus.
    • The rapid virus proliferation and extended transmission period highlight the epidemiological importance of this mosquito.
    • Transovarial transmission is a plausible mechanism for Ross River virus overwintering and persistence, warranting further investigation.

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