First Isolation of La Crosse Virus from Aedes albopictus Mosquitoes
Author Information
Author(s): Reid R. Gerhardt, Kristy L. Gottfried, Charles S. Apperson, Brent S. Davis, Paul C. Erwin, A. Brent Smith, Nicholas A. Panella, Eugene E. Powell, Roger S. Nasci
Primary Institution: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Hypothesis
Can Aedes albopictus serve as a vector for La Crosse virus?
Conclusion
The study confirms that Aedes albopictus can carry and potentially transmit La Crosse virus, indicating a risk for increased human cases.
Supporting Evidence
- La Crosse virus was isolated from Aedes albopictus for the first time.
- The study involved extensive mosquito collection and testing in Tennessee and North Carolina.
- Confirmed cases of La Crosse encephalitis increased significantly in Tennessee from 1997 to 1999.
- Seroprevalence rates of LAC antibodies were significantly different between eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina.
Takeaway
Scientists found a virus in a type of mosquito that could make more people sick. This means we need to be careful about these mosquitoes.
Methodology
Mosquitoes were collected from various sites in Tennessee and North Carolina, reared, and tested for the presence of La Crosse virus using RT-PCR and plaque assays.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential mosquito species involved in transmission.
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