Vectors of dengue in Mexico: a critical review)

Abstract

The mosquito Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (Linneaus, 1762) is the vector of dengue viruses in America. Recently, another related species, Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) was first introduced to America in 1986 in Texas, USA and later on in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Since then, this mosquito has rapidly colonized new areas along the northern border states of Mexico. The importance of this species as a vector of dengue virus is not clear. This work presents a revision of some characteristics of the two species in Mexico, with special emphasis in the documented vector, A. aegypti. Additionally, it includes a critical analysis of the methods for vector surveillance and its importance for a better application of control strategies, as well as some ideas about research needs and priorities in Mexico.