Geospatial Distribution of Dengue Virus (DENV) Vectors in Some Communities of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Emerging infectious diseases have persisted due to increased human migration and global warming. Mosquito-borne arboviral infections are of primary concern due to their complex vector dynamics and significant public health burden. However, there is limited data on the geospatial distribution of dengue virus vectors in Plateau State, Nigeria, limiting evidence-based vector surveillance and control strategies. Objectives: This study assessed the geospatial distribution of dengue virus vectors across some communities in Plateau State, Nigeria. Methods: Larval mosquito samples were collected for three months (May-July 2023) from different habitats, using dip methods. Collected mosquitoes were reared to adult and identified morphologically. Results: A total of 4082 Aedes mosquitoes, comprising only two species, were collected: Aedes aegypti (4074; 99.8%) and Aedes vitattus (8; 0.2%). Jos South recorded the highest mosquito abundance (1810; 44.34%), with the lowest in Pankshin (178; 4.36%) (p < .05). Five breeding habitats were encountered, with more mosquitoes encountered in car tires 2210 (54.14%) and containers 1038 (25.43%) (p < .05). Overall breeding index was: House Index = 50.96 (95% CI: 43.11-58.80), Container Index = 45.43 (95% CI: 39.17-51.69), and Breteau Index = 42.16% (95% CI: 36.04-48.27). Conclusion: Aedes mosquitoes are actively breeding in the area, and although the breeding indices are similar across locations, they portend a high risk of arboviral disease transmission in the event of an outbreak. This could also be facilitated by the spatial distribution of the vectors and their breeding activities in the place. Effective control measures aimed at reducing the breeding habitats of these vectors are therefore encouraged in Plateau State.