Diversity of Aedes Mosquito Breeding Sites and the Epidemic Risk of Arboviral Diseases in Benin

Abstract

Aedes mosquitoes are major vectors responsible for the transmission of arboviral diseases. This study aimed to identify the types of breeding sites colonized by Aedes mosquitoes and to assess the epidemic risk of arboviral diseases across communes in Benin. From January to November 2024, mosquito larvae were collected in nine study communes. All water-holding containers encountered were inspected for larvae and pupae. Samples of larvae and pupae were collected, pooled by breeding site type, and reared to adulthood for species identification. The frequency of different breeding site types was recorded. Epidemic risk was assessed using the House, Container and Breteau indices. Aedes aegypti (70.7%) was the most abundant species, followed by Culex quinquefasciatus (25.3%). Breeding sites were mainly artificial and included domestic containers (buckets, jars, drums, cans, cisterns, water troughs), tyres, and discarded containers (tin cans). The House, Container and Breteau indices indicated a high epidemic risk of arboviral diseases across the communes. The wide diversity of breeding sites supporting Aedes development, coupled with the high epidemic risk indices, highlights the urgent need for integrated vector control strategies, with priority given to identified high-risk areas.