Chikungunya Virus in Aedes albopictus, Italy
Author Information
Author(s): Bonilauri Paolo, Bellini Romeo, Calzolari Mattia, Angelini Raffaella, Venturi Luciano, Fallacara Francesca, Cordioli Paolo, Angelini Paola, Venturelli Claudio, Merialdi Giuseppe, Dottori Michele
Primary Institution: Istituto Zooprofilattico della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna
Hypothesis
Is the Aedes albopictus mosquito responsible for the chikungunya virus outbreak in Italy?
Conclusion
The chikungunya virus was confirmed in Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in Italy, indicating a risk of local transmission.
Supporting Evidence
- Residents in two villages sought treatment for symptoms consistent with chikungunya virus infection.
- Chikungunya fever was confirmed by the Superior Institute of Health.
- Positive PCR results were obtained from Aedes albopictus samples collected in the area.
Takeaway
Some people in Italy got sick from a virus carried by mosquitoes, and scientists found the virus in those mosquitoes.
Methodology
Mosquitoes were collected and tested for chikungunya virus using PCR methods.
Limitations
The short-sequenced fragment does not confirm the epidemiologic origin of the isolate from Italy.
Participant Demographics
Residents of two villages in Ravenna Province, Italy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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