Tropical Mosquito Moves North

Considered the second most dangerous mosquito in the world, Aedes aegypti is a major vector of Dengue, Yellow fever and Chikungunya viruses. Discovered in California in the cities of Clovis and Madera in June of this year, this day-biting mosquito can breed in containers with very small amounts of water.

Researchers led by Anthony Cornel at Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center have applied multiple approaches to control the mosquito including a comprehensive door-to-door educational campaign to enlist help from residents and to remove and empty containers that hold water from their residences. Residents are also advised on appropriate reporting to mosquito abatement personnel when they find Aedes aegypti on their properties.   

KARE researchers are monitoring the abundance and spread of the mosquito. Studies are underway to discover whether the mosquitoes found in California are susceptible or resistant to insecticides. If the mosquito overwinters and continues to breed next spring and summer Anton and his team will look to identify and implement different control strategies. 

If Aedes aegypti establishes itself in California, survives central valley winter conditions and cannot be eliminated  next year, the potential for spread to many other cities in California is great.