Recent studies in the United Arab Emirates reveal troubling evidence concerning the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, known for its role as a vector of deadly diseases. Researchers have discovered this species is developing resistance to deltamethrin, one of the most commonly used insecticides, threatening public health efforts aimed at controlling mosquito populations.
The study, titled “The southern house mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is developing resistance to deltamethrin insecticide,” marks the first investigation of insecticide resistance within this mosquito species in the UAE. The researchers focused on identifying the knockdown resistance (kdr) mutation L1014F, which has been associated with resistance to pyrethroids like deltamethrin, using molecular tools and CDC bottle bioassays.
Conducted by experts from various institutions, the research emphasizes the importance of monitoring insecticide resistance to implement effective mosquito control strategies. The presence of the kdr mutation was confirmed across all sampled locations, indicating widespread resistance. Simultaneously, deltamethrin resistance was noted solely at one sampling site, highlighting the necessity for sustained monitoring and potential alternative methods for mosquito management.
why is this important? Mosquitoes, especially Culex quinquefasciatus, not only cause irritation but also transport various diseases, including the West Nile virus and avian malaria. The findings from the study imply urgent action is required to develop integrated pest management programs, combining chemical control with alternative strategies to mitigate growing resistance.
in their work, researchers employed molecular tools, such as allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) and DNA sequencing, to confirm the existence of the L1014F mutation among mosquito populations. They also utilized the CDC bottle bioassay to establish diagnostic parameters for assessing deltamethrin resistance. Results showed the coastal sampling sites displayed higher frequencies of the homozygous resistant genotype (RR) than inland and Oman border locations, with 25.7% RR individuals found at coastal sites.
Although insecticides like deltamethrin have been widely used for mosquito control, the emergence of resistance signals caution. The study underlines the need to shift toward integrated pest management strategies which may include biological control methods and alternative insecticides, thereby minimizing reliance on any single approach.
this research provides not only valuable insights but also raises awareness about the potential risks posed by insecticide resistance to public health. The ever-changing dynamics of disease transmission necessitate continuous surveillance and active research to protect populations from vector-borne diseases precipitated by these resistant mosquito populations.