Arbovirus Vectors of Epidemiological Concern in the Americas: A Scoping Review of Entomological Studies on Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya Virus Vectors

Abstract

BackgroundThree arthorpod-borne viruses (arboviruses) causing human disease have been the focus of a large number of studies in the Americas since 2013 due to their global spread and epidemiological impacts: Zika, dengue, and chikungunya viruses. A large proportion of infections by these viruses are asymptomatic. However, all three viruses are associated with moderate to severe health consequences in a small proportion of cases. Two mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are among the worlds most prominent arboviral vectors, and are known primary vectors for all three viruses in the Americas.\n\nObjectivesThis review summarizes the state of the entomological literature surrounding the biology and ecology of vectors of Zika, dengue and chikungunya viruses and factors affecting virus transmission. The rationale of the review was to elucidate consensus and discord between studies, and guide future research based on identified knowledge gaps.\n\nResultsA total of 196 studies were included in the scoping review after initial screening and subsequent exclusion of out-of-scope studies, secondary data publications, duplicate records, and studies unavailable in English language.\n\nKey findingsTemperature and humidity have the strongest impact on mosquito distribution and dynamics, development of immatures and arborviral infection rates. Low socioeconomic status and related factors, including poor infrastructure, inconsistent access to water, and high household resident density, have been consistently associated with arbovirus vector occurrence. Effects of interspecific competition on arboviral vector species is currently poorly understood. Vector competence for Zika virus is well established for Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Information on Zika virus vector transmission dynamics is sparse in contrast to the wealth of research available for dengue and chikungunya viruses.\n\nConclusionsBased on the internationally recognized urgency of Zika virus infection as a public health concern, further research on arbovirus vectors and transmission dynamics is of pressing need.