The vector competence of dengue-borne Aedes mosquitoes and the application of the Aedes"mosquito island"theory
Dengue fever prevention and control is an urgent need for addressing major infectious diseases in China,and the control strategies need theoretical innovation and technological breakthroughs.Aedes albopictus,the dengue-borne mosquito,exhibits polymorphism in urban environments,resulting in heterogeneous mosquito habitats.This heterogeneity is evident in two aspects:firstly,varying mosquito densities across different habitats,and secondly,differences in vector competence of Aedes albopictus within the same city.The distribution of Aedes albopictus with high vector competence forms discrete"mosquito islands"within the city,analogous to small islands in the sea.Identifying the distribution and scope of these"mosquito islands",combined with vector Aedes daily activity rhythm and innovative ultra-low volume spray technology,can facilitate targeted mosquito control strategies during dengue outbreaks.This approach reduces insecticide spraying,improves mosquito control efficiency,and enables rapid dengue epidemic control.