Research Note: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) Aedes albopictus: A new entrant

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis, an ancient disease is a major global problem infecting more than 120 million men, women and children. Vectors for the causative agent Wuchereria bancrofti were investigated in Abia State, Nigeria. Of all the mosquito vectors encountered using sweep net, test tube and Pyrethrum Knockdown Count (PKC) methods, only Aedes albopictus has not been known to be implicated in the transmission of W. bancrofti-caused lymphatic filariasis. This is no good news considering the health implications and bearing in mind that Aedes albopictus is a competent vector for at least 22 arboviruses. The finding of W. bancrofti in A. albopictus (0.21%) in this study has thrown more light to it being a potential vector and possibly an actual vector of W. bancrofti.

Keywords: lymphatic filariasis, mosquito vectors, Wuchereria bancrofti, Aedes albopictus, new entrant.