1
|
Balatsos G, Beleri S, Tegos N, Bisia M, Karras V, Zavitsanou E, Papachristos DP, Papadopoulos NT, Michaelakis A, Patsoula E. Overwintering West Nile virus in active Culex pipiens mosquito populations in Greece. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:286. [PMID: 38956733 PMCID: PMC11221078 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06367-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The flavivirus West Nile Virus (WNV), which is transmitted by mosquitoes, poses a significant threat to both humans and animals, and its outbreaks often challenge public health in Europe and other continents. In recent years, there is an increasing trend of WNV incidence rates across several European countries. However, whether there is a year-round circulation or seasonal introduction has yet to be elucidated. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identified WNV-positive Culex pipiens mosquitos in 6 out of 146 pools examined in winter 2022 that correspond to three out of the 24 study areas, located in two coastal regions units in Attica, Greece. Spatial dispersion of the six positive pools in the same region suggests a clustered circulation of WNV during the winter of 2022. This is the first study that documents the identification of WNV in Cx. pipiens populations, captured in adult traps during winter period. Our findings underscore the need to extend entomological surveillance programs to include the winter period, specifically in temperate climates and historically affected areas by WNV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Balatsos
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Beleri
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Tegos
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Marina Bisia
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece
| | - Vasileios Karras
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece
| | - Evangelia Zavitsanou
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece
| | - Dimitrios P Papachristos
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece
| | - Nikos T Papadopoulos
- Department of Agriculture, Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, 38446, Magnisias, Greece
| | - Antonios Michaelakis
- Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561, Kifissia, Greece.
| | - Eleni Patsoula
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kouroupis D, Charisi K, Pyrpasopoulou A. The Ongoing Epidemic of West Nile Virus in Greece: The Contribution of Biological Vectors and Reservoirs and the Importance of Climate and Socioeconomic Factors Revisited. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:453. [PMID: 37755914 PMCID: PMC10536956 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8090453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases have inflicted a significant health and socioeconomic burden upon the global population and governments worldwide. West Nile virus, a zoonotic, mosquito-borne flavivirus, was originally isolated in 1937 from a febrile patient in the West Nile Province of Uganda. It remained confined mainly to Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe and Australia until 1999, circulating in an enzootic mosquito-bird transmission cycle. Since the beginning of the 21st century, a new, neurotropic, more virulent strain was isolated from human outbreaks initially occurring in North America and later expanding to South and South-eastern Europe. Since 2010, when the first epidemic was recorded in Greece, annual incidence has fluctuated significantly. A variety of environmental, biological and socioeconomic factors have been globally addressed as potential regulators of the anticipated intensity of the annual incidence rate; circulation within the zoonotic reservoirs, recruitment and adaptation of new potent arthropod vectors, average winter and summer temperatures, precipitation during the early summer months, and socioeconomic factors, such as the emergence and progression of urbanization and the development of densely populated areas in association with insufficient health policy measures. This paper presents a review of the biological and socioenvironmental factors influencing the dynamics of the epidemics of West Nile virus (WNV) cases in Greece, one of the highest-ranked European countries in terms of annual incidence. To date, WNV remains an unpredictable opponent as is also the case with other emerging infectious diseases, forcing the National Health systems to develop response strategies, control the number of infections, and shorten the duration of the epidemics, thus minimizing the impact on human and material resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Kouroupis
- 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, Konstantinoupoleos 49, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantina Charisi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Hippokration Hospital, Konstantinoupoleos 49, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Athina Pyrpasopoulou
- 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, Konstantinoupoleos 49, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Hippokration Hospital, Konstantinoupoleos 49, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pervanidou D, Kefaloudi CN, Vakali A, Tsakalidou O, Karatheodorou M, Tsioka K, Evangelidou M, Mellou K, Pappa S, Stoikou K, Bakaloudi V, Koliopoulos G, Stamoulis K, Patsoula E, Politis C, Hadjichristodoulou C, Papa A. The 2022 West Nile Virus Season in Greece; A Quite Intense Season. Viruses 2023; 15:1481. [PMID: 37515168 PMCID: PMC10383024 DOI: 10.3390/v15071481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2010, the West Nile virus (WNV) has been established in Greece. We describe the epidemiology of diagnosed human WNV infections in Greece with a focus on the 2022 season. During the transmission period, clinicians were sending samples from suspected cases for testing. Active laboratory-based surveillance was performed with immediate notification of diagnosed cases. We collected clinical information and interviewed patients on a timely basis to identify their place of exposure. Besides serological and molecular diagnostic methods, next-generation sequencing was also performed. In 2022, 286 cases of WNV infection were diagnosed, including 278 symptomatic cases and 184 (64%) cases with neuroinvasive disease (WNND); 33 patients died. This was the third most intense season concerning the number of WNND cases, following 2018 and 2010. Most (96%) cases were recorded in two regions, in northern and central Greece. The virus strain was a variant of previous years, clustering into the Central European subclade of WNV lineage 2. The 2022 WNV season was quite intense in Greece. The prompt diagnosis and investigation of cases are considered pivotal for the timely response, while the availability of whole genome sequences enables studies on the molecular epidemiology of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danai Pervanidou
- National Public Health Organization (EODY), 151 23 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Vakali
- National Public Health Organization (EODY), 151 23 Athens, Greece
| | - Ourania Tsakalidou
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Myrsini Karatheodorou
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Katerina Tsioka
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Kassiani Mellou
- National Public Health Organization (EODY), 151 23 Athens, Greece
| | - Styliani Pappa
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Stoikou
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bakaloudi
- Molecular Blood Center, AHEPA University General Hospital, 546 36 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Koliopoulos
- Department of Crop Science, School of Plant Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, 118 55 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Stamoulis
- Hellenic National Blood Transfusion Center, 136 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Patsoula
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 115 21 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Christos Hadjichristodoulou
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 412 22 Larisa, Greece
| | - Anna Papa
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Survivorship-Reducing Effect of Propylene Glycol on Vector Mosquito Populations and Its Potential Use in Attractive Toxic Sugar Baits. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13070595. [PMID: 35886771 PMCID: PMC9324135 DOI: 10.3390/insects13070595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) spread disease and pose a significant risk to public health around the world. While there are currently many control measures available, many are typically unsafe for humans and other animals, and they are becoming less effective against mosquitoes. We tested a compound called propylene glycol (1,2 propanediol) for its toxicity to three species of mosquitoes that serve as vectors of human pathogens. Propylene glycol is a compound that the FDA has designated as generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for human consumption, meaning it is approved for use in everyday household products. Through a series of assays in which we fed mosquitoes propylene glycol, we found that this compound is highly toxic to all three mosquito species examined and can drastically reduce the survivorship of laboratory populations. Our results suggest that propylene glycol could be a safe and effective substance to be used in the context of attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSBs) as a means of controlling mosquitoes near human habitations. Abstract Arthropod control mechanisms are a vital part of public health measures around the world as many insect species serve as vectors for devastating human diseases. Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) is a widely distributed, medically important mosquito species that transmits viruses such as yellow fever, Dengue, and Zika. Many traditional control mechanisms have become less effective due to insecticide resistance or exhibit unwanted off-target effects, and, consequently, there is a need for novel solutions. The use of attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSBs) has increased in recent years, though the toxic elements are often harmful to humans and other vertebrates. Therefore, we are investigating propylene glycol, a substance that is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for human consumption. Using a series of feeding assays, we found that propylene glycol is highly toxic to Ae. aegypti adults and a single day of exposure significantly reduces the survivorship of test populations compared with controls. The effects are more pronounced in males, drastically reducing their survivorship after one day of consumption. Additionally, the consumption of propylene glycol reduced the survivorship of two prominent disease vectors: Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) and Culex pipiens (Linnaeus, 1758). These findings indicate that propylene glycol could be used as a safe and effective alternative to pesticides in an ATSB system.
Collapse
|
5
|
Tsioka K, Gewehr S, Kalaitzopoulou S, Pappa S, Stoikou K, Mourelatos S, Papa A. Detection and molecular characterization of West Nile virus in Culex pipiens mosquitoes in Central Macedonia, Greece, 2019-2021. Acta Trop 2022; 230:106391. [PMID: 35271813 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Since 2010 when West Nile virus (WNV) emerged in Greece, it causes seasonal outbreaks of human infections almost every year. During May-October of 2019-2021 a total number of 51,504 Culex pipiens mosquitoes were trapped in all seven regional units of Central Macedonia in northern Greece. They were grouped into 1099 pools and tested for WNV. The virus was detected in 5% of the mosquito pools (1.5%, 3.6% and 9.6% pools in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively), with significant rate differences among the regional units and years. The highest maximum likelihood estimation for WNV infection rates calculated per 1000 mosquitoes for 2019 and 2020 were 1.89 and 3.84 in Serres, and 7.08 for 2021 in Pella regional unit. Sixteen whole genome sequences were taken by applying a recently described PCR-based next generation sequencing protocol. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the sequences belonged to the Central European clade of WNV lineage 2, and that a virus strain introduced in Greece in 2019 continued to circulate and spread further during 2020-2021. The data are useful for public health and mosquito control programs' operational scheduling, while the whole genome sequences are an added value for molecular epidemiology and evolutionary studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Tsioka
- National Reference Centre for Arboviruses, Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | | | | | - Styliani Pappa
- National Reference Centre for Arboviruses, Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Stoikou
- National Reference Centre for Arboviruses, Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Anna Papa
- National Reference Centre for Arboviruses, Laboratory of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fotakis EA, Mavridis K, Kampouraki A, Balaska S, Tanti F, Vlachos G, Gewehr S, Mourelatos S, Papadakis A, Kavalou M, Nikolakakis D, Moisaki M, Kampanis N, Loumpounis M, Vontas J. Mosquito population structure, pathogen surveillance and insecticide resistance monitoring in urban regions of Crete, Greece. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010186. [PMID: 35176020 PMCID: PMC8890720 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Greece vector borne diseases (VBD) and foremost West Nile virus (WNV) pose an important threat to public health and the tourist industry, the primary sector of contribution to the national economy. The island of Crete, is one of Greece's major tourist destinations receiving annually over 5 million tourists making regional VBD control both a public health and economic priority. METHODOLOGY Under the auspices of the Region of Crete, a systematic integrative surveillance network targeting mosquitoes and associated pathogens was established in Crete for the years 2018-2020. Using conventional and molecular diagnostic tools we investigated the mosquito species composition and population dynamics, pathogen infection occurrences in vector populations and in sentinel chickens, and the insecticide resistance status of the major vector species. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Important disease vectors were recorded across the island including Culex pipiens, Aedes albopictus, and Anopheles superpictus. Over 75% of the sampled specimens were collected in the western prefectures potentially attributed to the local precipitation patterns, with Cx. pipiens being the most dominant species. Although no pathogens (flaviviruses) were detected in the analysed mosquito specimens, chicken blood serum analyses recorded a 1.7% WNV antibody detection rate in the 2018 samples. Notably detection of the first WNV positive chicken preceded human WNV occurrence in the same region by approximately two weeks. The chitin synthase mutation I1043F (associated with high diflubenzuron resistance) was recorded at an 8% allelic frequency in Lasithi prefecture Cx. pipiens mosquitoes (sampled in 2020) for the first time in Greece. Markedly, Cx. pipiens populations in all four prefectures were found harboring the kdr mutations L1014F/C/S (associated with pyrethroid resistance) at a close to fixation rate, with mutation L1014C being the most commonly found allele (≥74% representation). Voltage gated sodium channel analyses in Ae. albopictus revealed the presence of the kdr mutations F1534C and I1532T (associated with putative mild pyrethroid resistance phenotypes) yet absence of V1016G. Allele F1534C was recorded in all prefectures (at an allelic frequency range of 25-46.6%) while I1532T was detected in populations from Chania, Rethymnon and Heraklion (at frequencies below 7.1%). Finally, no kdr mutations were detected in the Anopheles specimens included in the analyses. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The findings of our study are of major concern for VBD control in Crete, highlighting (i) the necessity for establishing seasonal integrated entomological/pathogen surveillance programs, supporting the design of targeted vector control responses and; ii) the need for establishing appropriate insecticide resistance management programs ensuring the efficacy and sustainable use of DFB and pyrethroid based products in vector control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil A. Fotakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Anastasia Kampouraki
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Laboratory, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Balaska
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Filianna Tanti
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Laboratory, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Vlachos
- EcoDevelopment SA-Integrated Mosquito Control, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Sandra Gewehr
- EcoDevelopment SA-Integrated Mosquito Control, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Antonios Papadakis
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Maria Kavalou
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Nikolakakis
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Maria Moisaki
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kampanis
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Manolis Loumpounis
- General Directorate of Public Health & Social Care of Region of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - John Vontas
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Laboratory, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Seasonal Phenological Patterns and Flavivirus Vectorial Capacity of Medically Important Mosquito Species in a Wetland and an Urban Area of Attica, Greece. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6040176. [PMID: 34698285 PMCID: PMC8544675 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6040176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonal patterns of mosquito population density and their vectorial capacity constitute major elements to understand the epidemiology of mosquito-borne diseases. Using adult mosquito traps, we compared the population dynamics of major mosquito species (Culex pipiens, Aedes albopictus, Anopheles spp.) in an urban and a wetland rural area of Attica Greece. Pools of the captured Cx. pipiens were analyzed to determine infection rates of the West Nile virus (WNV) and the Usutu virus (USUV). The data provided were collected under the frame of the surveillance program carried out in two regional units (RUs) of the Attica region (East Attica and South Sector of Attica), during the period 2017-2018. The entomological surveillance of adult mosquitoes was performed on a weekly basis using a network of BG-sentinel traps (BGs), baited with CO2 and BG-Lure, in selected, fixed sampling sites. A total of 46,726 adult mosquitoes were collected, with larger variety and number of species in East Attica (n = 37,810), followed by the South Sector of Attica (n = 8916). The collected mosquitoes were morphologically identified to species level and evaluated for their public health importance. Collected Cx. pipiens adults were pooled and tested for West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) presence by implementation of a targeted molecular methodology (real-time PCR). A total of 366 mosquito pools were analyzed for WNV and USUV, respectively, and 38 (10.4%) positive samples were recorded for WNV, while no positive pool was detected for USUV. The majority of positive samples for WNV were detected in the East Attica region, followed by the South Sector of Attica, respectively. The findings of the current study highlight the WNV circulation in the region of Attica and the concomitant risk for the country, rendering mosquito surveillance actions and integrated mosquito management programs as imperative public health interventions.
Collapse
|
8
|
Mavridis K, Michaelidou K, Vontas J. Highly sensitive droplet digital PCR-based diagnostics for the surveillance of malaria vector populations in low transmission and incipient resistance settings. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2021; 21:1105-1114. [PMID: 34328051 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2021.1963234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensitive monitoring of Plasmodium infective mosquitoes in low malaria transmission settings is of high priority for disease control. Early detection of insecticide resistance at low frequencies is also key for vector monitoring nowadays, when new insecticides are launched to control vector populations. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS An. gambiae mosquitoes with predetermined infection and resistance status were used to produce populations with various malaria infection rates and mutant allelic frequencies (MAFs) of target site insecticide resistance traits. Total RNA and gDNA were isolated and used in droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) and Reverse Transcription (RT) ddPCR performed in the QX200 ddPCR System. RESULTS We developed a novel ddPCR for detecting P. falciparum DNA in pooled mosquito head-thoraces with infective rate as low as 1.0%. A dissection-free RT-ddPCR assay for specific infective-stage detection was additionally developed and validated (accuracy = 100%) in mosquito pools with infective rates down to 1.0%. A novel ddPCR assay for insecticide resistant alleles, which was able to reliably quantify MAFs as low as 0.050% in pooled mosquito specimens, is also reported. CONCLUSIONS We developed highly sensitive and efficient (RT-) ddPCR assays for contemporary operational needs that require monitoring of low malaria transmission and emerging insecticide resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Kleita Michaelidou
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - John Vontas
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece.,Pesticide Science Laboratory, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Outammassine A, Zouhair S, Loqman S. Rift Valley Fever and West Nile virus vectors in Morocco: Current situation and future anticipated scenarios. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:1466-1478. [PMID: 33876581 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rift Valley Fever (RVF) and West Nile virus (WNV) are two important emerging Arboviruses transmitted by Aedes and Culex mosquitoes, typically Ae. caspius, Ae. detritus and Cx. pipiens in temperate regions. In Morocco, several outbreaks of WNV (1996, 2003 and 2010), affecting horses mostly, have been reported in north-western regions resulting in the death of 55 horses and one person cumulatively. Serological evidence of WNV local circulation, performed one year after the latest outbreak, revealed WNV neutralizing bodies in 59 out of 499 tested participants (El Rhaffouli et al., 2012). The country also shares common borders with northern Mauritania, where RVF is often documented. Human movement, livestock trade, climate changes and the availability of susceptible mosquito vectors are expected to increase the spread of these diseases in the country. Thus, in this study, we gathered a data set summarizing occurrences of Ae. caspius, Ae. detritus and Cx. pipiens in the country, and generated model prediction for their potential distribution under both current and future (2050) climate conditions, as a proxy to identify regions at-risk of RVF and WNV probable expansion. We found that the north-western regions (where the population is most concentrated), specifically along the Atlantic coastline, are highly suitable for Ae. caspius, Ae. detritus and Cx. pipiens, under present-day conditions. Future model scenarios anticipated possible range changes for the three mosquitoes under all climatic assumptions. All of the studied species are prospected to gain new areas that are currently not suitable, even under the most optimist scenario, thus placing additional human populations at risk. Our maps and predictions offer an opportunity to strategically target surveillance and control programmes. Public health officials, entomological surveillance and control delegation must augment efforts and continuously monitor these areas to reduce and minimize human infection risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkrim Outammassine
- Laboratoire de Lutte contre les Maladies Infectieuses, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Said Zouhair
- Laboratoire de Lutte contre les Maladies Infectieuses, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco.,Laboratory of Bacteriology-Virology, Avicienne Hospital Military, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Souad Loqman
- Laboratoire de Lutte contre les Maladies Infectieuses, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kirik H, Burtin V, Tummeleht L, Kurina O. Friends in All the Green Spaces: Weather Dependent Changes in Urban Mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) Abundance and Diversity. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12040352. [PMID: 33920956 PMCID: PMC8071238 DOI: 10.3390/insects12040352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Many female mosquitoes require vertebrate blood for egg production. Cities are becoming increasingly important points of contact between mosquitoes and their prey, as large-scale urbanization continues. Human settlements represent unique but fragmented habitats that are permanently warmer than rural areas. Because of this, there is a growing demand to better understand urban mosquito populations and the factors affecting them in various circumstances. The aim of this study was to investigate the weather conditions influencing mosquito species and abundance in a Northern European town. Thus, a three-year-long mosquito collection effort was undertaken in Estonia. Results indicated that the number of active mosquitoes decreased with wind and higher temperatures. Interestingly, there was a significant negative correlation between temperature and humidity. Furthermore, while mosquitoes belonging to the Culex pipiens/Culex torrentium group were consistently abundant during the end of the warm season, other dominant species varied considerably between the months and the three study years. Overall, springtime hydrological conditions seemed to greatly influence the mosquito season. Urbanization could generate both higher temperatures and drier environments, resulting in fewer mosquitoes in some areas. This study also revealed the mosquito species most likely to contribute to disease transmission in Estonian towns. Abstract Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are universally recognized as troublesome pests and vectors of various pathogens and parasites. Understandably, the species makeup and diversity of individual populations depends on local and broad scale environmental trends, especially on temperature and hydrological variations. Anthropogenic landscapes make for unique habitats, but their effect on insects likely varies across climatic regions. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity and seasonal patterns of urban mosquitoes in the boreal region. Specimens were collected with an insect net from May to September during three years and determined to species or species group level. Weather information was added to each data point and results analyzed using multivariate regression models. Fieldwork yielded 1890 mosquitoes from four genera. Both abundance and the effective number of species (ENS) significantly decreased during the study period. The number of collected mosquitoes had a negative correlation with wind speed and temperature, latter of which exhibited a negative association with humidity. Species succession followed predictable patterns, but with some variation between years. Still, Culex pipiens/Culex torrentium were the most abundant throughout the study. Importantly, all dominant species were known disease vectors. Our work showed that higher temperatures could result in fewer mosquitoes in boreal towns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heli Kirik
- Inst of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwaldi 5D, 51006 Tartu, Estonia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +372-5649-6490
| | | | - Lea Tummeleht
- Inst of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Olavi Kurina
- Inst of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwaldi 5D, 51006 Tartu, Estonia;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abdelkrim O, Samia B, Said Z, Souad L. Modeling and mapping the habitat suitability and the potential distribution of Arboviruses vectors in Morocco. Parasite 2021; 28:37. [PMID: 33861197 PMCID: PMC8051322 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes transmit several agents of diseases and the presence of different species represents a threat to animal and public health. Aedes and Culex mosquitoes are of particular concern giving their potential vector competence for Arbovirus transmission. In Morocco, the lack of detailed information related to their spatial distribution raises major concerns and hampers effective vector surveillance and control. Using maximum entropy (Maxent) modeling, we generated prediction models for the potential distribution of Arboviruses vectors (Aedes aegypti, Ae. vexans, Ae. caspius, Ae. detritus, and Culex pipiens) in Morocco, under current climatic conditions. Also, we investigated the habitat suitability for the potential occurrence and establishment of Ae. albopictus and Ae. vittatus recorded only once in the country. Prediction models for these last two species were generated considering occurrence datasets from close countries of the Mediterranean Basin, where Ae. albopictus is well established, and from a worldwide database for the case of Ae. vittatus (model transferability). With the exception of Ae. vittatus, the results identify potential habitat suitability in Morocco for all mosquitos considered. Existing areas with maximum risk of establishment and high potential distribution were mainly located in the northwestern and central parts of Morocco. Our results essentially underline the assumption that Ae. albopictus, if not quickly controlled, might find suitable habitats and has the potential to become established, especially in the northwest of the country. These findings may help to better understand the potential distribution of each species and enhance surveillance efforts in areas identified as high risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Outammassine Abdelkrim
-
Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University PO Box 7010 40000 Marrakech Morocco
| | - Boussaa Samia
-
ISPITS-Higher Institute of Nursing and Health Technology 40000 Marrakech Morocco
-
Ecology and the Environment Laboratory L2E (URAC 32, CNRST ERACNERS 06), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University 2390-40080 Marrakech Morocco
| | - Zouhair Said
-
Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University PO Box 7010 40000 Marrakech Morocco
-
Laboratory of Bacteriology–Virology, Avicienne Hospital Military 40000 Marrakech Morocco
| | - Loqman Souad
-
Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University PO Box 7010 40000 Marrakech Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Screening of Mosquitoes for West Nile Virus and Usutu Virus in Croatia, 2015-2020. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6020045. [PMID: 33918386 PMCID: PMC8167590 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In the period from 2015 to 2020, an entomological survey for the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) in mosquitoes was performed in northwestern Croatia. A total of 20,363 mosquitoes were sampled in the City of Zagreb and Međimurje county, grouped in 899 pools and tested by real-time RT-PCR for WNV and USUV RNA. All pools were negative for WNV while one pool each from 2016 (Aedes albopictus), 2017 (Culex pipiens complex), 2018 (Cx. pipiens complex), and 2019 (Cx. pipiens complex), respectively, was positive for USUV. The 2018 and 2019 positive pools shared 99.31% nucleotide homology within the USUV NS5 gene and both clustered within USUV Europe 2 lineage. The next-generation sequencing of one mosquito pool (Cx. pipiens complex) collected in 2018 in Zagreb confirmed the presence of USUV and revealed several dsDNA and ssRNA viruses of insect, bacterial and mammalian origin.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fotakis EA, Orfanos M, Kouleris T, Stamatelopoulos P, Tsiropoulos Z, Kampouraki A, Kioulos I, Mavridis K, Chaskopoulou A, Koliopoulos G, Vontas J. VectorMap-GR: A local scale operational management tool for entomological monitoring, to support vector control activities in Greece and the Mediterranean Basin. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2021; 1:100053. [PMID: 35284881 PMCID: PMC8906066 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2021.100053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, Greece and other Mediterranean countries have witnessed the emergence and resurgence of several vector-borne diseases (VBDs), posing important public health challenges and threatening the tourist industry. An essential prerequisite for the design and execution of efficient and sustainable context-specific VBD control programmes is the establishment of integrative entomological and epidemiological surveillance systems. However, the monitoring and management of surveillance datasets (often chronologically fragmented, scattered in regional health district offices and partially accessible upon requisition), as well as their transformation into actionable information, is a complex undertaking. In light of aiding and optimizing vector control efforts in the Mediterranean Basin, we developed VectorMap-GR, an online, open access, operational management tool for entomological and complementary epidemiological monitoring data. The toolʼs key components are a set of controlled vocabularies (ontologies) running throughout the system, the systemʼs database and a map interface for data querying and display. The tool supports transformation of raw data into operationally relevant information (i.e. customized maps, charts, tables and reports) in a highly interactive fashion achieved through query filters and the ArcGIS technology embedded in the system. End-users may search for and obtain information on (i) the mosquito fauna composition, abundance and spatiotemporal dynamics; (ii) the mosquito insecticide resistance status and underlying resistance mechanisms; (iii) the occurrence of VBD pathogens and infections in vectors, animals and humans; and (iv) operationally relevant physical feature georeferenced datasets (e.g. mosquito breeding sites). VectorMap-GR was pilot implemented during 2018–2020 in a mosquito control programme in the Region of Crete (southern Greece). The programmeʼs control efforts coupled with VectorMap-GR pilot implementation phase, very likely contributed to the reduction of vector population numbers and the prevention of human VBD occurrences, recorded in this period. VectorMap-GR has a capacity for operational vector management support in the Mediterranean Basin. The tool provides actionable entomological/epidemiological data over key GIS layers. The output generation process is rapid, interactive and query-sensitive. The open access, online tool displays high expandability potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil A. Fotakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Corresponding author.
| | - Manolis Orfanos
- AGENSO, Agricultural and Environmental Solutions, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Anastasia Kampouraki
- Pesticide Science Laboratory, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ilias Kioulos
- Pesticide Science Laboratory, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - George Koliopoulos
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - John Vontas
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Pesticide Science Laboratory, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pervanidou D, Vakali A, Georgakopoulou T, Panagiotopoulos T, Patsoula E, Koliopoulos G, Politis C, Stamoulis K, Gavana E, Pappa S, Mavrouli M, Emmanouil M, Sourvinos G, Mentis A, Tsakris A, Hadjichristodoulou C, Tsiodras S, Papa A. West Nile virus in humans, Greece, 2018: the largest seasonal number of cases, 9 years after its emergence in the country. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 25. [PMID: 32794446 PMCID: PMC7427301 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.32.1900543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infection are recorded since 2010 in Greece, with seasonal outbreaks occurring almost annually. Enhanced surveillance has been implemented since 2010, to promptly characterise cases’ temporal and geographical distribution and inform authorities for implementation of appropriate measures (mosquito control, health education, blood safety). Aim We describe the epidemiology of WNV human infections in Greece focusing on the 2018 season. Methods The National Public Health Organization advised physicians to test all suspect WNV infection cases and refer samples to reference laboratories. Laboratories notified diagnosed cases on a daily basis. Treating physicians, patients, and infected blood donors were interviewed within 48 hours after diagnosis and the probable infection location was identified. Hospitalised cases were followed up until discharge. Results A total of 317 autochthonous WNV infection cases were diagnosed in 2018. Among them, 243 cases had neuroinvasive disease (WNND), representing a 23% increase of WNND cases compared with 2010, the previous most intense season. There were 51 deaths. Cases started occurring from week 22, earlier than usual. Both rural and urban areas were affected, with 86 (26% of the total) municipalities belonging to seven (54% of the total) regions recording cases. Two major epicentres were identified in Attica and Central Macedonia regions. Conclusions The largest number of human cases of WNV infection ever recorded in Greece occurred in 2018, with a wide geographical distribution, suggesting intense virus circulation. Enhanced surveillance is vital for the early detection of human cases and the prompt implementation of response measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danai Pervanidou
- Hellenic National Public Health Organization/former Hellenic Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | - Annita Vakali
- Hellenic National Public Health Organization/former Hellenic Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | - Theano Georgakopoulou
- Hellenic National Public Health Organization/former Hellenic Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | - Takis Panagiotopoulos
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health Policy, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Patsoula
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health Policy, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Constantina Politis
- Hellenic National Public Health Organization/former Hellenic Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Elpida Gavana
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Styliani Pappa
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Mavrouli
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Emmanouil
- Diagnostic Services Laboratory, Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - George Sourvinos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Andreas Mentis
- Diagnostic Services Laboratory, Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanassios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Sotirios Tsiodras
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Hellenic National Public Health Organization/former Hellenic Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Papa
- National Reference Center for Arboviruses and Haemorrhagic Fever Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Amin M, Zaim M, Edalat H, Basseri HR, Yaghoobi-Ershadi MR, Rezaei F, Azizi K, Salehi-Vaziri M, Ghane M, Yousefi S, Dabaghmanesh S, Kheirandish S, Najafi ME, Mohammadi J. Seroprevalence Study on West Nile Virus (WNV) Infection, a Hidden Viral Disease in Fars Province, Southern Iran. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2020; 14:173-184. [PMID: 33365345 PMCID: PMC7738928 DOI: 10.18502/jad.v14i2.3735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: West Nile Virus, a mosquito-borne flavivirus, causes a variety of symptoms in human, from asymptomatic infection to neuroinvasive disease. Several studies have been conducted on the seroprevalence of WNV infection in different areas from Iran. This study was performed to find the presence of antiviral antibodies in human serum among some high risk population and awareness of health care staff about symptom of the WNV infection. Methods: Study performed in five geographical districts based on high population of immigrant and domestic birds and prevalence of the antiviral antibodies in horses which was reported previously. Totally 150 human blood samples were collected during 2018. The samples collected from patients referred to the clinics. The ELISA method used to detect IgG and IgM antibody against WNV. Logistic regression models used to analyze the effect of sex, age, keeping birds and urban/rural residence on the risk of infection. The awareness of health care staff about symptom of infection surveyed. Results: From all blood donors, 41 samples (27.33%) showed positive to IgG antibody. From which 56.10% were males and remaining females. None of the mentioned factors had a significant relationship. Health care staff had less attention to the infection. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of antibodies was relatively high, due to the similarity to other viral diseases, health care staff had less attention to the disease. The study showed that people in these areas have been exposed to the virus. Further research activities are recommended for control of this arbovirus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Amin
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Morteza Zaim
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamideh Edalat
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Basseri
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Yaghoobi-Ershadi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhad Rezaei
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kourosh Azizi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Salehi-Vaziri
- Department of Arboviruses and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers (National Ref Lab), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ghane
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saideh Yousefi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sorna Dabaghmanesh
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Kheirandish
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mohammad Esmaeil Najafi
- Environmental Health Unit, Faculty of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jalal Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Balaska S, Fotakis EA, Kioulos I, Grigoraki L, Mpellou S, Chaskopoulou A, Vontas J. Bioassay and molecular monitoring of insecticide resistance status in Aedes albopictus populations from Greece, to support evidence-based vector control. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:328. [PMID: 32600453 PMCID: PMC7325023 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04204-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aedes albopictus has a well-established presence in southern European countries, associated with recent disease outbreaks (e.g. chikungunya). Development of insecticide resistance in the vector is a major concern as its control mainly relies on the use of biocides. Data on the species' resistance status are essential for efficient and sustainable control. To date the insecticide resistance status of Ae. albopictus populations from Greece against major insecticides used in vector control remains largely unknown. METHODS We investigated the insecticide resistance status of 19 Ae. albopictus populations from 11 regions of Greece. Bioassays were performed against diflubenzuron (DFB), Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti), deltamethrin and malathion. Known insecticide resistance loci were molecularly analysed, i.e. voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance; presence and frequency of carboxylesterases 3 (CCEae3a) and 6 (CCEae6a) gene amplification associated with organophosphate (OP) resistance and; chitin synthase-1 (CHS-1) for the possible presence of DFB resistance mutations. RESULTS Bioassays showed full susceptibility to DFB, Bti and deltamethrin, but resistance against the OP malathion (range of mortality: 55.30-91.40%). VGSC analysis revealed a widespread distribution of the mutations F1534C (in all populations, with allelic frequencies between 6.6-68.3%), and I1532T (in 6 populations; allelic frequencies below 22.70%), but absence of V1016G. CCE gene amplifications were recorded in 8 out of 11 populations (overall frequency: 33%). Co-presence of the F1534C mutation and CCEae3a amplification was reported in 39 of the 156 samples analysed by both assays. No mutations at the CHS-1 I1043 locus were detected. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate: (i) the suitability of larvicides DFB and Bti for Ae. albopictus control in Greece; (ii) possible incipient pyrethroid resistance due to the presence of kdr mutations; and (iii) possible reduced efficacy of OPs, in a scenario of re-introducing them for vector control. The study highlights the need for systematic resistance monitoring for developing and implementing appropriate evidence-based control programmes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Balaska
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Emmanouil A. Fotakis
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ilias Kioulos
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Linda Grigoraki
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, UK
| | - Spyridoula Mpellou
- Bioefarmoges Eleftheriou LP -Integrated Mosquito Control, Marathon, 19007 Greece
| | | | - John Vontas
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
A Comparison of Adult Mosquito Trapping Methods to Assess Potential West Nile Virus Mosquito Vectors in Greece during the Onset of the 2018 Transmission Season. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11060329. [PMID: 32471294 PMCID: PMC7348707 DOI: 10.3390/insects11060329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) threatens the health of humans and equines worldwide. Culex (Cx.) pipiens complex mosquitoes are major vectors but numerous other species have been implicated. Due to variations in blood-feeding behaviour, Cx. pipiens biotypes and hybrids influence transmission, from enzootic cycles (between mosquitoes and birds), to spill-over transmission to humans and equines. In this study, mosquitoes were collected in May–June 2018 during the early period of the transmission season from two regional units of Greece, where WNV cases had been reported in the previous four years (Palaio Faliro and Argolida). A total of 1062 mosquitoes were collected with Biogents Sentinel 2 traps collecting both a greater number of all mosquito species and the Cx. pipiens complex than CDC miniature light traps or Heavy Duty EVS traps. Molecular identification confirmed additional species including Aedes albopictus. The proportion of Cx. pipiens biotypes in Palaio Faliro was 54.5% pipiens, 20.0% molestus and 25.5% hybrids. In Argolida, the collection comprised 68.1% pipiens biotype, 8.3% molestus biotype and 23.6% hybrids. Screening resulted in WNV detection in three females of the pipiens biotype and in one hybrid. As hybrids play a role in spill-over transmission, these findings highlight the importance of entomological surveillance programs incorporating molecular xenomonitoring as an early warning before human cases at the onset of the transmission season.
Collapse
|
18
|
Fotakis EA, Mastrantonio V, Grigoraki L, Porretta D, Puggioli A, Chaskopoulou A, Osório H, Weill M, Bellini R, Urbanelli S, Vontas J. Identification and detection of a novel point mutation in the Chitin Synthase gene of Culex pipiens associated with diflubenzuron resistance. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008284. [PMID: 32357192 PMCID: PMC7219787 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diflubenzuron (DFB) is one of the most used insecticides in mosquito larval control including that of Culex pipiens, the proven vector of the recent West Nile Virus epidemics in Europe. Two mutations (I1043L and I1043M) in the chitin synthase (CHS) putative binding site of DFB have been previously reported in Cx. pipiens from Italy and associated with high levels of resistance against this larvicide. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Here we report the identification of a third mutation at the same I1043 position of the CHS gene resulting in the substitution of Isoleucine to Phenylalanine (I1043F). This mutation has also been found in agricultural pests and has been functionally validated with genome editing in Drosophila, showing to confer striking levels (>15,000 fold) of DFB resistance. The frequency of the I1043F mutation was found to be substantially higher in Cx. pipiens mosquitoes surviving DFB doses largely exceeding the recommended field dose, raising concerns about the future efficient use of this insecticide. We monitored the presence and frequency of DFB mutations in Cx. pipiens mosquitoes from several Mediterranean countries, including Italy, France, Greece, Portugal and Israel. Among the Cx. pipiens populations collected in Northern Italy all but one had at least one of the three DFB mutations at allele frequencies reaching 93.3% for the I1043M, 64.8% for the I1043L and 10% for the I1043F. The newly reported I1043F mutation was also identified in two heterozygote individuals from France (4.2% allelic frequency). In contrast to Italy and France, no DFB resistant mutations were identified in the Cx. pipiens mosquitoes sampled from Greece, Portugal and Israel. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The findings of our study are of major concern for mosquito control programs in Europe, that rely on the use of a limited number of available larvicides, and highlight the necessity for the development of appropriate Insecticide Resistance Management (IRM) programs, to ensure the sustainable use of DFB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil A Fotakis
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Linda Grigoraki
- Vector Biology Dept, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Porretta
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Puggioli
- Medical and Veterinary Entomology Dept., Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Hugo Osório
- National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge, Centro de Estudos de Vetores e Doenças Infeciosas Doutor Francisco Cambournac, Avenida da Liberdade, Águas de Moura, Portugal
| | - Mylène Weill
- Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution (CNRS-Université de Montpellier-IRD-EPHE), Montpellier, France
| | - Romeo Bellini
- Medical and Veterinary Entomology Dept., Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", Bologna, Italy
| | - Sandra Urbanelli
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - John Vontas
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fotakis EA, Giantsis IA, Castells Sierra J, Tanti F, Balaska S, Mavridis K, Kourtidis S, Vontas J, Chaskopoulou A. Population dynamics, pathogen detection and insecticide resistance of mosquito and sand fly in refugee camps, Greece. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:30. [PMID: 32183909 PMCID: PMC7079361 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-0635-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As of 2015 thousands of refugees are being hosted in temporary refugee camps in Greece. Displaced populations, travelling and living under poor conditions with limited access to healthcare are at a high risk of exposure to vector borne disease (VBD). This study sought to evaluate the risk for VBD transmission within refugee camps in Greece by analyzing the mosquito and sand fly populations present, in light of designing effective and efficient context specific vector and disease control programs. METHODS A vector/pathogen surveillance network targeting mosquitoes and sand flies was deployed in four temporary refugee camps in Greece. Sample collections were conducted bi-weekly during June-September 2017 with the use of Centers for Disease Control (CDC) light traps and oviposition traps. Using conventional and molecular diagnostic tools we investigated the mosquito/sand fly species composition, population dynamics, pathogen infection rates, and insecticide resistance status in the major vector species. RESULTS Important disease vectors including Anopheles sacharovi, Culex pipiens, Aedes albopictus and the Leishmania vectors Phlebotomus neglectus, P. perfiliewi and P. tobbi were recorded in the study refugee camps. No mosquito pathogens (Plasmodium parasites, flaviviruses) were detected in the analysed samples yet high sand fly Leishmania infection rates are reported. Culex pipiens mosquitoes displayed relatively high knock down resistance (kdr) mutation allelic frequencies (ranging from 41.0 to 63.3%) while kdr mutations were also detected in Ae. albopictus populations, but not in Anopheles and sand fly specimens. No diflubenzuron (DFB) mutations were detected in any of the mosquito species analysed. CONCLUSIONS Important disease vectors and pathogens in vectors (Leishmania spp.) were recorded in the refugee camps indicating a situational risk factor for disease transmission. The Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus kdr mutation frequencies recorded pose a potential threat against the effectiveness of pyrethroid insecticides in these settings. In contrast, pyrethroids appear suitable for the control of Anopheles mosquitoes and sand flies and DFB for Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus larvicide applications. Targeted actions ensuring adequate living conditions and the establishment of integrated vector-borne disease surveillance programs in refugee settlements are essential for protecting refugee populations against VBDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil Alexandros Fotakis
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece. .,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
| | | | | | - Filianna Tanti
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Balaska
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Sofoklis Kourtidis
- General Directorate of Public Health and Social Welfare, Region of Central Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - John Vontas
- Department of Crop Science, Pesticide Science Lab, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ostapchuk YO, Zhigailov AV, Perfilyeva YV, Shumilina AG, Yeraliyeva LT, Nizkorodova AS, Kuznetsova TV, Iskakova FA, Berdygulova ZA, Neupokoyeva AS, Mamadaliyev SM, Dmitrovskiy AM. Two case reports of neuroinvasive West Nile virus infection in the Almaty region, Kazakhstan. IDCases 2020; 21:e00872. [PMID: 32577401 PMCID: PMC7305403 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2020.e00872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Population screening has confirmed circulation of West Nile virus in the southern region of Kazakhstan (Almaty region). We report two cases of meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology occurred in the rural area near Tekeli city, Kazakhstan, in August 2019. Retrospective analysis showed high titers of anti-WNV IgG in both patients’ serum specimens obtained on day 9 after the onset of symptoms. These are the first reports of West Nile virus infection in Kazakhstan.
Background West Nile virus (WNV) is a member of the genus Flavivirus, which transmitted to humans mainly by mosquitoes. Recent pilot serosurveillance data from the Almaty region, Kazakhstan, suggest widespread WNV circulation in this area. This report includes two cases of neuroinvasive WNV infection in the same family living in a rural area near Tekeli city, Eskeldinsky district, Almaty region, Kazakhstan. Occurring concurrently and manifesting as WNV infection with febrile illness and symptoms of meningoencephalitis. Methods The study performed retrospective analysis of clinical histories and achieved serum samples obtained from patients with febrile and meningoencephalitic syndromes of unknown origin in the Almaty region spanning from April 1 to October 31, 2019. All sera samples obtained from patients with clinically suspected cases of acute WNV infection were retrospectively tested for WNV and tick-borne encephalitis virus by commercial immunoassays. Two cases were selected. Cases presentation We report two cases that occurred in August 2019 in a rural area near Tekeli city. Previously healthy 28- and 19-year-old husband and wife with febrile illness and neurological manifestations were hospitalized with the diagnosis of meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology and treated empirically. Retrospective serological analysis showed the presence of high titers of IgG against WNV on day 9 after onset of symptoms in cases. Conclusions This is the first report of aseptic meningitis with WNV infection in the background in Kazakhstan. The obtained data suggest circulation of WNV in the Almaty region and emphasize importance of laboratory testing for WNV in suspicious cases occurring in the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yekaterina O. Ostapchuk
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Andrey V. Zhigailov
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Yuliya V. Perfilyeva
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Anna G. Shumilina
- Tekeli City Hospital, Tekeli, 25 Tauelsizdik Str., Tekeli, 041700, Kazakhstan
| | - Lyazzat T. Yeraliyeva
- National Scientific Center of Phthisiopulmonology, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5 Bekhozhina Str., Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
| | - Anna S. Nizkorodova
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Tatyana V. Kuznetsova
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Farida A. Iskakova
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Evidence-based Medicine, 71 Al-Farabi Str., Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhanna A. Berdygulova
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | - Alena S. Neupokoyeva
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Andrey M. Dmitrovskiy
- Almaty Branch of National Center for Biotechnology, 14g Zhahanger Str., Almaty, 050054, Kazakhstan
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Patsoula E, Beleri S, Tegos N, Mkrtsian R, Vakali A, Pervanidou D. Entomological Data and Detection of West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes in Greece (2014-2016), Before Disease Re-Emergence in 2017. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 20:60-70. [PMID: 31710270 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) cases were seasonally recorded in humans and animals in Greece, from 2010 to 2014, and circulation of the virus was detected in different Regional Units of the country. Small scale entomological surveillance activities were carried out by several regions and regional units in Greece, during 2014-2016, with the participation of subcontractors for the vector control programs aiming to record presence/absence of mosquito species, and monitor and control mosquito populations. Mosquito traps were placed in rural and urban sites; specimens were collected, morphologically characterized, and pooled by date of collection, location, and species types. Mosquito pools containing Culex pipiens, Aedes caspius, and Aedes albopictus were examined for the presence of WNV and positive pools were detected in different areas of the country. Sequencing of a selected number of amplicons revealed WNV lineage 2 partial NS5 gene sequences. In this study, we present data on the mosquito species composition in the areas of study and WNV detection from several parts of Greece, in 6, 11, and 26 mosquito pools corresponding to the years 2014, 2015, and 2016, respectively. A total of 15 WNV human infections were reported to the public health authorities of the country in 2014, whereas no human cases were detected for 2015-2016. Taking into consideration the complex epidemiological profile of WNV and unforeseen changes in its circulation, re-emergence of WNV human cases in Greece was possible and expected, thus rendering surveillance activities imperative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Patsoula
- Department of Parasitology, Entomology and Tropical Diseases, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Beleri
- Department of Parasitology, Entomology and Tropical Diseases, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Tegos
- Department of Parasitology, Entomology and Tropical Diseases, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece
| | - Rima Mkrtsian
- Master in Public Health Programme, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Focal distribution of diflubenzuron resistance mutations in Culex pipiens mosquitoes from Northern Italy. Acta Trop 2019; 193:106-112. [PMID: 30825446 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Insecticide resistance is a major threat for vector control and prevention of mosquito borne diseases. In the Culex pipiens mosquitoes, resistance against diflubenzuron (DFB) was firstly detected in Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna region, Northern Italy), in 2015. The resistant phenotypes were associated with two mutations, I1043 M and I1043 L, at the amino acid 1043 of the chitin synthase gene. In this study, we monitored the presence, frequency and geographical distribution of the DFB resistant mutations in Cx. pipiens populations from Northern Italy, and in populations from Greece and France. In the Emilia-Romagna region, the resistant mutations were detected in 20 out of the 30 populations analysed, reaching allelic frequencies over 70%. The presence and distribution of the resistance mutations was highly focal, with a clear pattern of increasing resistant allelic frequencies moving from the Western towards the Eastern provinces of Emilia-Romagna. Contrary to Italy, DFB resistant alleles were not detected in the Cx. pipiens mosquitoes sampled from Greece and France. Following statistical, literature and bibliographical database analyses on the history of DFB insecticide use in the study areas, we suggest that the selection pressures from the intense agricultural DFB applications occurring throughout the' 80-'90 s against orchard pests, followed, from 2000s onwards by mosquito control DFB applications, may account for the high mutation frequencies observed in the Cx. pipiens populations of the Eastern provinces of Emilia-Romagna. The findings are of major concern for public health in Italy and Europe, as DFB remains a very important insecticide used for controlling arbovirus mosquito vectors, where alternative larvicides are extremely limited.
Collapse
|
23
|
Vilibic-Cavlek T, Savic V, Petrovic T, Toplak I, Barbic L, Petric D, Tabain I, Hrnjakovic-Cvjetkovic I, Bogdanic M, Klobucar A, Mrzljak A, Stevanovic V, Dinjar-Kujundzic P, Radmanic L, Monaco F, Listes E, Savini G. Emerging Trends in the Epidemiology of West Nile and Usutu Virus Infections in Southern Europe. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:437. [PMID: 31867347 PMCID: PMC6908483 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemiology of West Nile (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) has changed dramatically over the past two decades. Since 1999, there have been regular reports of WNV outbreaks and the virus has expanded its area of circulation in many Southern European countries. After emerging in Italy in 1996, USUV has spread to other countries causing mortality in several bird species. In 2009, USUV seroconversion in horses was reported in Italy. Co-circulation of both viruses was detected in humans, horses and birds. The main vector of WNV and USUV in Europe is Culex pipiens, however, both viruses were found in native Culex mosquito species (Cx. modestus, Cx. perexiguus). Experimental competence to transmit the WNV was also proven for native and invasive mosquitoes of Aedes and Culex genera (Ae. albopictus, Ae. detritus, Cx. torrentium). Recently, Ae. albopictus and Ae. japonicus naturally-infected with USUV were reported. While neuroinvasive human WNV infections are well-documented, USUV infections are sporadically detected. However, there is increasing evidence of a role of USUV in human disease. Seroepidemiological studies showed that USUV circulation is more common than WNV in some endemic regions. Recent data showed that WNV strains detected in humans, horses, birds, and mosquitoes mainly belong to lineage 2. In addition to European USUV lineages, some reports indicate the presence of African USUV lineages as well. The trends in WNV/USUV range and vector expansion are likely to continue in future years. This mini-review provides an update on the epidemiology of WNV and USUV infections in Southern Europe within a multidisciplinary "One Health" context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- *Correspondence: Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
| | - Vladimir Savic
- Poultry Center, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tamas Petrovic
- Department for Virology, Scientific Veterinary Institute, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Ivan Toplak
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ljubo Barbic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases With Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dusan Petric
- Laboratory for Medical and Veterinary Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Irena Tabain
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Hrnjakovic-Cvjetkovic
- Center for Microbiology, Institute of Public Health Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Medical Faculty, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Maja Bogdanic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Klobucar
- Division of Disinfection, Disinfestation and Pest Control, Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anna Mrzljak
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vladimir Stevanovic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases With Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Luka Radmanic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases With Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Federica Monaco
- OIE Reference Center for West Nile Disease, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Eddy Listes
- Laboratory for Diagnostics, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Regional Institute Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Giovanni Savini
- OIE Reference Center for West Nile Disease, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ziyaeyan M, Behzadi MA, Leyva-Grado VH, Azizi K, Pouladfar G, Dorzaban H, Ziyaeyan A, Salek S, Jaber Hashemi A, Jamalidoust M. Widespread circulation of West Nile virus, but not Zika virus in southern Iran. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0007022. [PMID: 30557321 PMCID: PMC6312345 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) are mosquito-borne viral infections. Over the past few decades, WNV has been associated with several outbreaks involving high numbers of neuroinvasive diseases among humans. The recent re-emergence of ZIKV has been associated with congenital malformation and also with Guillain-Barre syndrome in adults. The geographic range of arthropod-borne viruses has been rapidly increasing in recent years. The objectives of this study were to determine the presence of IgG specific antibodies and the genome of WNV and ZIKV in human samples, as well as WNV and ZIKV genomes in wild-caught mosquitoes in urban and rural areas of the Hormozgan province, in southern Iran. A total of 494 serum samples were tested for the presence of WNV and ZIKV IgG antibodies using ELISA assays. One hundred and two (20.6%) samples were reactive for WNV IgG antibodies. All serum samples were negative for ZIKV IgG antibodies. Using the multivariable logistic analysis, age (45+ vs. 1-25; OR = 3.4, 95% C.I.: 1.8-6.3), occupation (mostly outdoor vs. mostly indoor; OR = 2.4, 95% C.I.: 1.1-5.2), and skin type(type I/II vs. type III/IV and type V/VI; OR = 4.3, 95% C.I.: 1.7-10.8 and OR = 2.7, 95% C.I.: 1.3-5.5 respectively, skin types based on Fitzpatrick scale) showed significant association with WNV seroreactivity. We collected 2,015 mosquitoes in 136 pools belonging to 5 genera and 14 species. Three pools of Culex pipiens complex were positive for WNV RNA using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rtRT-PCR). ZIKV RNA was not detected in any of the pools. All WNV ELISA reactive serum samples were negative for WNV RNA. In conclusion, we provided evidence of the establishment of WNV in southern Iran and no proof of ZIKV in serum samples or in mosquito vectors. The establishment of an organized arbovirus surveillance system and active case finding strategies seems to be necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mazyar Ziyaeyan
- Department of Clinical Virology, Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Behzadi
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Victor Hugo Leyva-Grado
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Kourosh Azizi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Research Center for Health Sciences, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Pouladfar
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hedayat Dorzaban
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Research Center for Health Sciences, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Sanaz Salek
- Department of Clinical Virology, Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aghyl Jaber Hashemi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Research Center for Health Sciences, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marzieh Jamalidoust
- Department of Clinical Virology, Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|