Discovery of Aedes albopictus in Guatemala

Aedes albopictus was discovered for the first time in Guatemala during June 1995. It was collected in 10 out of 15 localities sampled in and around the community of Puerto Barrios in the Department of Izabal. The location of the positive collections indicates a more rural distribution than Aedes aegypti. Sampling was conducted along the Atlantic Highway up to the capital city to determine the extent of its introduction into the country. Larvae were not found more than 4 km outside of Puerto Barrios. The principal breeding places were rubber tires, glass bottles, and metal drums.