Researchers at GHTM | IHMT-NOVA recently published in the journal Parasites & Vectors the article titled “Asian tiger mosquito in the oil-producing city of Soyo: the first report of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse, 1894) in Angola“.
Gonçalo Alves, a PhD student in Biomedical Sciences at IHMT-NOVA and a member of GHTM, is a co-author of this study, which also includes the participation of Arlete Dina Troco and Professor João Pinto.
The study was conducted within the framework of a project focused on entomological surveillance and partnerships for the control of mosquito-borne diseases and marks the first detection of the Aedes albopictus mosquito, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, in Angola, specifically in the city of Soyo, in Zaire Province, during a survey of Anopheles stephensi.
Aedes albopictus is a highly invasive species that has rapidly spread across various tropical and temperate regions worldwide, facilitated by human activities. This mosquito is associated with the emergence of arboviruses in new geographic areas, posing an increasing concern for public health. The study highlights the importance of strengthening mosquito surveillance and control measures to prevent the emergence of arboviral diseases.
The study also underscores the relevance of collaboration between local health authorities, communities, and international organisations in monitoring the spread of invasive species.