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Furlong M, Adamu A, Hickson RI, Horwood P, Golchin M, Hoskins A, Russell T. Estimating the Distribution of Japanese Encephalitis Vectors in Australia Using Ecological Niche Modelling. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7120393. [PMID: 36548648 PMCID: PMC9782987 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7120393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) outbreaks in southeastern Australia have sparked interest into epidemiological factors surrounding the virus' novel emergence in this region. Here, the geographic distribution of mosquito species known to be competent JEV vectors in the country was estimated by combining known mosquito occurrences and ecological drivers of distribution to reveal insights into communities at highest risk of infectious disease transmission. Species distribution models predicted that Culex annulirostris and Culex sitiens presence was mostly likely along Australia's eastern and northern coastline, while Culex quinquefasciatus presence was estimated to be most likely near inland regions of southern Australia as well as coastal regions of Western Australia. While Culex annulirostris is considered the dominant JEV vector in Australia, our ecological niche models emphasise the need for further entomological surveillance and JEV research within Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Furlong
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (P.H.)
| | - Andrew Adamu
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Roslyn I. Hickson
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Paul Horwood
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (P.H.)
| | - Maryam Golchin
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Andrew Hoskins
- Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Tanya Russell
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
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The Emergence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Australia in 2022: Existing Knowledge of Mosquito Vectors. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061208. [PMID: 35746679 PMCID: PMC9231386 DOI: 10.3390/v14061208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In early 2022, the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was identified as the cause of stillborn and mummified piglets in pig farms in southeastern Australia. Human cases and additional pig farms with infected piglets were subsequently identified across a widespread area encompassing four states. To inform surveillance and control programs, we synthesized existing information on Australian vectors of JEV, much of which was generated in response to incursions of JEV into the northern state of Queensland between 1995 and 2005. Members of the Culex sitiens subgroup, particularly Culex annulirostris, should be considered the primary vectors of JEV in Australia, as they yielded >87% of field detections of JEV, were highly efficient laboratory vectors of the virus, readily fed on pigs and birds (the key amplifying hosts of the virus) when they were available, and are widespread and often occur in large populations. Three introduced species, Culex quinquefasciatus, Culex gelidus and Culex tritaeniorhynchus may also serve as vectors, but more information on their geographical distribution, abundance and bionomics in the Australian context is required. Mosquitoes from other genera, such as Aedes and Verrallina, whilst considered relatively poor vectors, could play a regional or supplemental role in transmission, especially facilitating vertical transmission as a virus overwintering mechanism. Additional factors that could impact JEV transmission, including mosquito survival, dispersal and genetics, are also discussed. Possible directions for investigation are provided, especially in the context of the virus emerging in a region with different mosquito fauna and environmental drivers than northern Australia.
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Blood feeding habits of mosquitoes: hardly a bite in South America. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1829-1852. [PMID: 35562516 PMCID: PMC9106385 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07537-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mosquito blood feeding plays a key role in epidemiology. Despite its importance and large number of studies worldwide, less attention has been paid in South America. We summarized some general concepts and methodological issues related to the study of mosquito blood feeding habits, and compiled and analyzed all published information regarding the subject in the continent until 2020. Available literature comprised 152 scientific studies, that pursued different approaches: human landing catches (102 studies), baited trap (19), and blood meal analyses of collected specimens (38). Among the latter, 23 used serological and 15 molecular techniques. Species most frequently studied were those incriminated in malaria transmission, whereas relevant vectors such as Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus, and Haemagogus janthinomys were surprisingly neglected. Brazil was the leading country both in number of works and species studied. For over 70% of the species and three out of 13 South American countries there is no single information on mosquito blood feeding habits. Data from baited traps included 143 mosquito species, 83.9% of which were attracted to humans, either exclusively (10.5%) or in combination with other vertebrates (73.4%). Host blood identification of field collected specimens provided data on 102 mosquito species, and 60.8% of these fed on humans (55.9% combined with other vertebrates). Only 17 of the 73 species assessed by both methods yielded similar feeding patterns. Finally, supplementary tables are provided in a comprehensive summary of all information available and information gaps are highlighted for future research in the continent.
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Sebayang BF, Russell TL, Staunton KM, Townsend M, Paton C, Lehmann T, Burkot TR. Australian mosquito assemblages vary between ground and sub-canopy habitats. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:515. [PMID: 34620217 PMCID: PMC8499491 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The surveillance and control of mosquito-borne diseases is dependent upon understanding the bionomics and distribution of the vectors. Most studies of mosquito assemblages describe species abundance, richness and composition close to the ground defined often by only one sampling method. In this study, we assessed Australian mosquito species near the ground and in the sub-canopy using two traps baited with a variety of lures. Methods Mosquitoes were sampled using a 4 × 4 Latin square design at the Cattana Wetlands, Australia from February to April 2020, using passive box traps with octenol and carbon dioxide and three variations of a sticky net trap (unbaited, and baited with octenol or octenol and carbon dioxide). The traps were deployed at two different heights: ground level (≤ 1 m above the ground) and sub-canopy level (6 m above the ground). Results In total, 27 mosquito species were identified across the ground and sub-canopy levels from the different traps. The abundance of mosquitoes at the ground level was twofold greater than at the sub-canopy level. While the species richness at ground and sub-canopy levels was not significantly different, species abundance varied by the collection height. Conclusions The composition of mosquito population assemblages was correlated with the trap types and heights at which they were deployed. Coquillettidia species, which prefer feeding on birds, were mainly found in the sub-canopy whereas Anopheles farauti, Aedes vigilax and Mansonia uniformis, which have a preference for feeding on large mammals, were predominantly found near the ground. In addition to trap height, environmental factors and mosquito bionomic characteristics (e.g. larval habitat, resting behaviour and host blood preferences) may explain the vertical distribution of mosquitoes. This information is useful to better understand how vectors may acquire and transmit pathogens to hosts living at different heights. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Boni F Sebayang
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia.
| | - Tanya L Russell
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Kyran M Staunton
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Michael Townsend
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Christopher Paton
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Tovi Lehmann
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Thomas R Burkot
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
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Mee PT, Wong S, Brown K, Lynch SE. Quantitative PCR assay for the detection of Aedes vigilax in mosquito trap collections containing large numbers of morphologically similar species and phylogenetic analysis of specimens collected in Victoria, Australia. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:434. [PMID: 34454606 PMCID: PMC8401248 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04923-y] [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: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aedes vigilax is one of the most significant arbovirus vector and pest species in Australia’s coastal regions. Occurring in multiple countries, this mosquito species occurs as a species complex which has been separated into three clades with two detected in Australia. Until recently, Ae. vigilax has largely been absent from Victoria, only occasionally caught over the years, with no reported detections from 2010 to 2016. Complicating the detection of Ae. vigilax is the shared sympatric distribution to the morphologically similar Ae. camptorhynchus, which can exceed 10,000 mosquitoes in a single trap night in Victoria. Currently, there are no molecular assays available for the detection of Ae. vigilax. We aim to develop a quantitative PCR (qPCR) for the detection of Ae. vigilax, with the specificity and sensitivity of this assay assessed as well as a method to process whole mosquito traps. Methods Trapping was performed during the 2017–2020 mosquito season in Victoria in two coastal areas across these 3 consecutive years. A qPCR assay was designed to allow rapid identification of Ae. vigilax as well as a whole mosquito trap homogenizing and processing methodology. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to determine which clade Ae. vigilax from Victoria was closest to. Results Aedes vigilax was successfully detected each year across two coastal areas of Victoria, confirming the presence of this species. The qPCR assay was proven to be sensitive and specific to Ae. vigilax, with trap sizes up to 1000 mosquitoes showing no inhibition in detection sensitivity. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Ae. vigilax from Victoria is associated with clade III, showing high sequence similarity to those previously collected in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. Conclusions Aedes vigilax is a significant vector species that shares an overlapping distribution to the morphologically similar Ae. camptorhynchus, making detection difficult. Here, we have outlined the implementation of a specific and sensitive molecular screening assay coupled with a method to process samples for detection of Ae. vigilax in collections with large numbers of non-target species. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04923-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Mee
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Shani Wong
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Brown
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stacey E Lynch
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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Hernandez-Colina A, Gonzalez-Olvera M, Lomax E, Townsend F, Maddox A, Hesson JC, Sherlock K, Ward D, Eckley L, Vercoe M, Lopez J, Baylis M. Blood-feeding ecology of mosquitoes in two zoological gardens in the United Kingdom. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:249. [PMID: 34016159 PMCID: PMC8139098 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04735-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zoological gardens contain unique configurations of exotic and endemic animals and plants that create a diverse range of developing sites and potential sources of blood meals for local mosquitoes. This may imply unusual interspecific pathogen transmission risks involving zoo vertebrates, like avian malaria to captive penguins. Understanding mosquito ecology and host feeding patterns is necessary to improve mosquito control and disease prevention measures in these environments. METHODS Mosquito sampling took place in Chester Zoo for 3 years (2017, 2018, and 2019) and for 1 year in Flamingo Land (2017) using different trapping methods. Blood-fed mosquitoes were identified and their blood meal was amplified by PCR, sequenced, and blasted for host species identification. RESULTS In total, 640 blood-fed mosquitoes were collected [Culex pipiens (n = 497), Culiseta annulata (n = 81), Anopheles maculipennis s.l. (n = 7), An. claviger (n = 1), and unidentifiable (n = 55)]. Successful identification of the host species was achieved from 159 blood-fed mosquitoes. Mosquitoes fed on birds (n = 74), non-human mammals (n = 20), and humans (n = 71). There were mixed blood meals from two hosts (n = 6). The proportions of blood-fed mosquitoes varied across sampling seasons and sites within the zoos. The use of resting traps and aspiration of vegetation were more efficient techniques for capturing blood-fed mosquitoes than traps for host-seeking or gravid mosquitoes. By relating the locations of zoo vertebrates to where fed mosquitoes were trapped, the minimum travelling distances were calculated (13.7 to 366.7 m). Temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, proximity to zoo vertebrate exhibits, and vegetation level were found to be significantly associated with the proportion of captured blood-fed mosquitoes by generalized linear modelling. CONCLUSIONS Mosquito feeding behaviour in zoos is mainly influenced by time, location (sampling area), temperature, and host availability, which highlights the value of mosquito monitoring in complex settings to plan control strategies and potentially reduce inherent disease transmission risks for humans and threatened zoo vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Hernandez-Colina
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK.
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Chester, CH2 1LH, UK.
| | - Merit Gonzalez-Olvera
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Chester, CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Emily Lomax
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Freya Townsend
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Amber Maddox
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Jenny C Hesson
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Centre, Uppsala University, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kenneth Sherlock
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Dawn Ward
- Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, YO17 6UX, UK
| | - Lindsay Eckley
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Chester, CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Mark Vercoe
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Chester, CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Javier Lopez
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Chester, CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Matthew Baylis
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Cheshire, CH64 7TE, UK
- Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Johnson BJ, Robbins A, Gyawali N, Ong O, Loader J, Murphy AK, Hanger J, Devine GJ. The environmental and ecological determinants of elevated Ross River Virus exposure in koalas residing in urban coastal landscapes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4419. [PMID: 33627779 PMCID: PMC7904799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83919-1] [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: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Koala populations in many areas of Australia have declined sharply in response to habitat loss, disease and the effects of climate change. Koalas may face further morbidity from endemic mosquito-borne viruses, but the impact of such viruses is currently unknown. Few seroprevalence studies in the wild exist and little is known of the determinants of exposure. Here, we exploited a large, spatially and temporally explicit koala survey to define the intensity of Ross River Virus (RRV) exposure in koalas residing in urban coastal environments in southeast Queensland, Australia. We demonstrate that RRV exposure in koalas is much higher (> 80%) than reported in other sero-surveys and that exposure is uniform across the urban coastal landscape. Uniformity in exposure is related to the presence of the major RRV mosquito vector, Culex annulirostris, and similarities in animal movement, tree use, and age-dependent increases in exposure risk. Elevated exposure ultimately appears to result from the confinement of remaining coastal koala habitat to the edges of permanent wetlands unsuitable for urban development and which produce large numbers of competent mosquito vectors. The results further illustrate that koalas and other RRV-susceptible vertebrates may serve as useful sentinels of human urban exposure in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Johnson
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Amy Robbins
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Narayan Gyawali
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Oselyne Ong
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Joanne Loader
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Amanda K. Murphy
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia ,grid.1024.70000000089150953School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059 Australia
| | - Jon Hanger
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Gregor J. Devine
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
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Ong OTW, Skinner EB, Johnson BJ, Old JM. Mosquito-Borne Viruses and Non-Human Vertebrates in Australia: A Review. Viruses 2021; 13:265. [PMID: 33572234 PMCID: PMC7915788 DOI: 10.3390/v13020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne viruses are well recognized as a global public health burden amongst humans, but the effects on non-human vertebrates is rarely reported. Australia, houses a number of endemic mosquito-borne viruses, such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis virus. In this review, we synthesize the current state of mosquito-borne viruses impacting non-human vertebrates in Australia, including diseases that could be introduced due to local mosquito distribution. Given the unique island biogeography of Australia and the endemism of vertebrate species (including macropods and monotremes), Australia is highly susceptible to foreign mosquito species becoming established, and mosquito-borne viruses becoming endemic alongside novel reservoirs. For each virus, we summarize the known geographic distribution, mosquito vectors, vertebrate hosts, clinical signs and treatments, and highlight the importance of including non-human vertebrates in the assessment of future disease outbreaks. The mosquito-borne viruses discussed can impact wildlife, livestock, and companion animals, causing significant changes to Australian ecology and economy. The complex nature of mosquito-borne disease, and challenges in assessing the impacts to non-human vertebrate species, makes this an important topic to periodically review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oselyne T. W. Ong
- Children’s Medical Research Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Eloise B. Skinner
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia;
- Biology Department, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Brian J. Johnson
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Julie M. Old
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury, Locked bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
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Chaves LSM, Bergo ES, Conn JE, Laporta GZ, Prist PR, Sallum MAM. Anthropogenic landscape decreases mosquito biodiversity and drives malaria vector proliferation in the Amazon rainforest. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245087. [PMID: 33444320 PMCID: PMC7808592 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Inter-relationships among mosquito vectors, Plasmodium parasites, human ecology, and biotic and abiotic factors, drive malaria risk. Specifically, rural landscapes shaped by human activities have a great potential to increase the abundance of malaria vectors, putting many vulnerable people at risk. Understanding at which point the abundance of vectors increases in the landscape can help to design policies and interventions for effective and sustainable control. Using a dataset of adult female mosquitoes collected at 79 sites in malaria endemic areas in the Brazilian Amazon, this study aimed to (1) verify the association among forest cover percentage (PLAND), forest edge density (ED), and variation in mosquito diversity; and to (2) test the hypothesis of an association between landscape structure (i.e., PLAND and ED) and Nyssorhynchus darlingi (Root) dominance. Mosquito collections were performed employing human landing catch (HLC) (peridomestic habitat) and Shannon trap combined with HLC (forest fringe habitat). Nyssorhynchus darlingi abundance was used as the response variable in a generalized linear mixed model, and the Shannon diversity index (H') of the Culicidae community, PLAND, and the distance house-water drainage were used as predictors. Three ED categories were also used as random effects. A path analysis was used to understand comparative strengths of direct and indirect relationships among Amazon vegetation classes, Culicidae community, and Ny. darlingi abundance. Our results demonstrate that Ny. darlingi is negatively affected by H´ and PLAND of peridomestic habitat, and that increasing these variables (one-unit value at β0 = 768) leads to a decrease of 226 (P < 0.001) and 533 (P = 0.003) individuals, respectively. At the forest fringe, a similar result was found for H' (β1 = -218; P < 0.001) and PLAND (β1 = -337; P = 0.04). Anthropogenic changes in the Amazon vegetation classes decreased mosquito biodiversity, leading to increased Ny. darlingi abundance. Changes in landscape structure, specifically decreases in PLAND and increases in ED, led to Ny. darlingi becoming the dominant species, increasing malaria risk. Ecological mechanisms involving changes in landscape and mosquito species composition can help to understand changes in the epidemiology of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduardo Sterlino Bergo
- Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Jan E. Conn
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Zorello Laporta
- Setor de Pós-graduação, Pesquisa e Inovação, Centro Universitário Saúde ABC, Fundação ABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula Ribeiro Prist
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Anice Mureb Sallum
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Mann JG, Washington M, Guynup T, Tarrand C, Dewey EM, Fredregill C, Duguma D, Pitts RJ. Feeding Habits of Vector Mosquitoes in Harris County, TX, 2018. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1920-1929. [PMID: 32574364 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne pathogens contribute significantly to the global burden of infectious diseases and are a continuing public health concern in the United States. Blood feeding by vector mosquitoes is a critical step in the transmission of human pathogens. Continuous surveillance of mosquito feeding patterns, especially in major population centers, is necessary for sustainable, effective control strategies. To better understand female feeding habits in Harris County, TX, we trapped mosquitoes from various locations, distributed among urban and semi-urban environments. Bloodmeal hosts were determined using a cytochrome C oxidase I DNA barcoding strategy. We identified a diverse array of vertebrate hosts with a high degree of avian host utilization, most surprisingly from anthropophilic species like Aedes aegypti (L.). We also detected sequences from two different vertebrate hosts in about half of specimens examined, suggesting that multiple bloodmeals had been acquired in the same feeding cycle by a sizable fraction of females in both urban and semi-urban locations. The high proportion of feeding on domestic chickens may indicate that a significant number of homeowners are rearing chickens within close proximity to study trap sites. As non-amplifying hosts, chickens may have a diluting effect on West Nile virus, as well as a zooprophylactic effect in their immediate vicinities. Ultimately, spatial and temporal host utilization patterns add insight into potential disease transmission dynamics, thereby informing vector control strategies in Harris County and other metropolitan areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- James G Mann
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX
| | - Megan Washington
- Harris County Public Health, Mosquito and Vector Control Division, Houston TX
| | | | - Christopher Tarrand
- Harris County Public Health, Mosquito and Vector Control Division, Houston TX
| | | | - Chris Fredregill
- Harris County Public Health, Mosquito and Vector Control Division, Houston TX
| | - Dagne Duguma
- Harris County Public Health, Mosquito and Vector Control Division, Houston TX
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Murphy AK, Clennon JA, Vazquez-Prokopec G, Jansen CC, Frentiu FD, Hafner LM, Hu W, Devine GJ. Spatial and temporal patterns of Ross River virus in south east Queensland, Australia: identification of hot spots at the rural-urban interface. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:722. [PMID: 33008314 PMCID: PMC7530966 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05411-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ross River virus (RRV) is responsible for the most common vector-borne disease of humans reported in Australia. The virus circulates in enzootic cycles between multiple species of mosquitoes, wildlife reservoir hosts and humans. Public health concern about RRV is increasing due to rising incidence rates in Australian urban centres, along with increased circulation in Pacific Island countries. Australia experienced its largest recorded outbreak of 9544 cases in 2015, with the majority reported from south east Queensland (SEQ). This study examined potential links between disease patterns and transmission pathways of RRV. Methods The spatial and temporal distribution of notified RRV cases, and associated epidemiological features in SEQ, were analysed for the period 2001–2016. This included fine-scale analysis of disease patterns across the suburbs of the capital city of Brisbane, and those of 8 adjacent Local Government Areas, and host spot analyses to identify locations with significantly high incidence. Results The mean annual incidence rate for the region was 41/100,000 with a consistent seasonal peak in cases between February and May. The highest RRV incidence was in adults aged from 30 to 64 years (mean incidence rate: 59/100,000), and females had higher incidence rates than males (mean incidence rates: 44/100,000 and 34/100,000, respectively). Spatial patterns of disease were heterogeneous between years, and there was a wide distribution of disease across both urban and rural areas of SEQ. Overall, the highest incidence rates were reported from predominantly rural suburbs to the north of Brisbane City, with significant hot spots located in peri-urban suburbs where residential, agricultural and conserved natural land use types intersect. Conclusions Although RRV is endemic across all of SEQ, transmission is most concentrated in areas where urban and peri-urban environments intersect. The drivers of RRV transmission across rural-urban landscapes should be prioritised for further investigation, including identification of specific vectors and hosts that mediate human spillover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Murphy
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia. .,School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Julie A Clennon
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | | | - Cassie C Jansen
- Communicable Diseases Branch, Queensland Health, Herston, Australia
| | - Francesca D Frentiu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Louise M Hafner
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gregor J Devine
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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12
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Skinner EB, Rudd PA, Peel AJ, McCallum H, Reid SA, Herrero LJ. Species Traits and Hotspots Associated with Ross River Virus Infection in Nonhuman Vertebrates in South East Queensland. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 21:50-58. [PMID: 32996845 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic arbovirus associated with high public health and economic burdens across Australia, but particularly in South East Queensland (SEQ). Despite this high burden, humans are considered incidental hosts. Transmission of RRV is maintained among mosquitoes and many nonhuman vertebrate reservoir hosts, although the relative contributions of each of these hosts are unclear. To clarify the importance of a range of vertebrates in RRV transmission in SEQ, a total of 595 serum samples from 31 species were examined for RRV exposure using a gold-standard plaque reduction neutralization test. Data were analyzed statistically using generalized linear models and a coefficient inference tree, and spatially. RRV exposure was highly variable between and within species groups. Critically, species group ("placental mammal," "marsupial," and "bird"), which has previously been used as a proxy for reservoir hosts, was a poor correlate for exposure. Instead, we found that generalized "diet" and greater "body mass" were most strongly correlated with seropositivity. We also identified significant differences in seropositivity between the two major possum species (ringtail possums and brushtail possums), which are ecologically and taxonomically different. Finally, we identified distinct hotspots and coldspots of seropositivity in nonhuman vertebrates, which correlated with human notification data. This is the largest diversity of species tested for RRV in a single study to date. The analysis methods within this study provide a framework for analyzing serological data in combination with species traits for other zoonotic disease, but more specifically for RRV highlight areas to target further public health research and surveillance effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise B Skinner
- Biology Department, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA.,Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.,Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Australia
| | - Penny A Rudd
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Australia
| | - Alison J Peel
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hamish McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Simon A Reid
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lara J Herrero
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Australia.,Redlands Hospital, QLD Health, Cleveland, Australia
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13
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Skinner EB, Murphy A, Jansen CC, Shivas MA, McCallum H, Onn MB, Reid SA, Peel AJ. Associations Between Ross River Virus Infection in Humans and Vector-Vertebrate Community Ecology in Brisbane, Australia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 20:680-691. [PMID: 32366183 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmission of vector-borne pathogens can vary in complexity from single-vector, single-host systems through to multivector, multihost vertebrate systems. Understanding the dynamics of transmission is important for disease prevention efforts, but is dependent on disentangling complex interactions within coupled natural systems. Ross River virus (RRV) is a multivector multihost pathogen responsible for the greatest number of notified vector-borne pathogen infections in humans in Australia. Current evidence suggests that nonhuman vertebrates are critical for the maintenance and spillover of RRV into mosquito populations. Yet, there is a limited knowledge of which mosquito vector species and amplifying vertebrate host species are most important for transmission of RRV to humans. We conducted field surveys of nonhuman vertebrates and mosquitoes in the RRV endemic city of Brisbane, Australia, to assess the effect of vector and host community structure on human RRV notifications. Six suburbs were selected across a gradient of human disease notification rates. Differences in vertebrate and mosquito compositions were observed across all suburbs. Suburbs with higher RRV notification rates contained greater vertebrate biomass (dominated by the presence of horses) and higher mosquito abundances. This study suggests that horse-mosquito interactions should be considered in more detail and that vertebrate biomass and mosquito abundance be incorporated into future RRV modeling studies and considered in public health strategies for RRV management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise B Skinner
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Amanda Murphy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Mosquito Control Laboratory, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cassie C Jansen
- Communicable Diseases Branch, Queensland Health, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Martin A Shivas
- Brisbane City Council, Field Services, Brisbane CBD, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hamish McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael B Onn
- Brisbane City Council, Field Services, Brisbane CBD, Queensland, Australia
| | - Simon A Reid
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alison J Peel
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
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14
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Williams SH, Levy A, Yates RA, Somaweera N, Neville PJ, Nicholson J, Lindsay MDA, Mackenzie JS, Jain K, Imrie A, Smith DW, Lipkin WI. Discovery of Jogalong virus, a novel hepacivirus identified in a Culex annulirostris (Skuse) mosquito from the Kimberley region of Western Australia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227114. [PMID: 31899786 PMCID: PMC6941808 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of hepaciviruses in non-human hosts has accelerated following the advancement of high-throughput sequencing technology. Hepaciviruses have now been described in reptiles, fish, birds, and an extensive array of mammals. Using metagenomic sequencing on pooled samples of field-collected Culex annulirostris mosquitoes, we discovered a divergent hepacivirus-like sequence, named Jogalong virus, from the Kimberley region in northern Western Australia. Using PCR, we screened the same 300 individual mosquitoes and found just a single positive sample (1/300, 0.33%). Phylogenetic analysis of the hepacivirus NS5B protein places Jogalong virus within the genus Hepacivirus but on a distinct and deeply rooted monophyletic branch shared with duck hepacivirus, suggesting a notably different evolutionary history. Vertebrate barcoding PCR targeting two mitochondrial genes, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and cytochrome b, indicated that the Jogalong virus-positive mosquito had recently fed on the tawny frogmouth (Podargus strigoides), although it is currently unknown whether this bird species contributes to the natural ecology of this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon H. Williams
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Avram Levy
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel A. Yates
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nilusha Somaweera
- Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health, Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J. Neville
- Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health, Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jay Nicholson
- Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health, Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael D. A. Lindsay
- Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health, Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - John S. Mackenzie
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Komal Jain
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Allison Imrie
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David W. Smith
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - W. Ian Lipkin
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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15
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Biteye B, Fall AG, Seck MT, Ciss M, Diop M, Gimonneau G. Host-feeding patterns of Aedes (Aedimorphus) vexans arabiensis, a Rift Valley Fever virus vector in the Ferlo pastoral ecosystem of Senegal. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215194. [PMID: 31584948 PMCID: PMC6777780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Host-vector contact is a key factor in vectorial capacity assessment and thus the transmission of mosquito-borne viruses such as Rift Valley Fever (RVF), an emerging zoonotic disease of interest in West Africa. The knowledge of the host-feeding patterns of vector species constitutes a key element in the assessment of their epidemiological importance in a given environment. The aim of this work was to identify the blood meal origins of the mosquito Aedes vexans arabiensis, the main vector of RVF virus in the Ferlo pastoral ecosystem of Senegal. Methodology/principal findings Engorged female mosquitoes were collected in Younouféré in the pastoral ecosystem in the Ferlo region during the 2014 rainy season. CO2-baited CDC light traps were set at six points for two consecutive nights every month from July to November. Domestic animals present around traps were identified and counted for each trapping session. Blood meal sources of engorged mosquitoes were identified using a vertebrate-specific multiplexed primer set based on cytochrome b. Blood meal sources were successfully identified for 319 out of 416 blood-fed females (76.68%), of which 163 (51.1%) were single meals, 146 (45.77%) mixed meals from two different hosts and 10 (3.13%) mixed meals from three different hosts. Aedes vexans arabiensis fed preferentially on mammals especially on horse compared to other hosts (FR = 46.83). Proportions of single and mixed meals showed significant temporal and spatial variations according to the availability of the hosts. Conclusion Aedes vexans arabiensis shows an opportunistic feeding behavior depending on the host availability. This species fed preferentially on mammals especially on horses (primary hosts) and ruminants (secondary hosts).
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Affiliation(s)
- Biram Biteye
- Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles/Laboratoire National de l’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires BP 2057 Dakar-Hann, Sénégal
- * E-mail:
| | - Assane Gueye Fall
- Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles/Laboratoire National de l’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires BP 2057 Dakar-Hann, Sénégal
| | - Momar Talla Seck
- Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles/Laboratoire National de l’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires BP 2057 Dakar-Hann, Sénégal
| | - Mamadou Ciss
- Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles/Laboratoire National de l’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires BP 2057 Dakar-Hann, Sénégal
| | - Mariame Diop
- Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles/Laboratoire National de l’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires BP 2057 Dakar-Hann, Sénégal
| | - Geoffrey Gimonneau
- CIRAD, UMR INTERTRYP, Montpellier, France
- Centre International de Recherche–Développement sur l’Elevage en zone subhumide, Bobo-Dioulasso 01, Burkina Faso
- INTERTRYP, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France
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