Bio-ecological study of Culex quinquefasciatus as a potential vector of Japanese encephalitis in some provinces in Indonesia

Abstract

Culex quinquefasciatus is a mosquito known as Japanese encephalitis (JE) vector in several regions in Indonesia. The bioecological study is essential to optimize the vector control of JE. The purpose of the study was to obtain the ecological information of Cx. quinquefasciatus in 15 provinces in Indonesia: Aceh, West Sumatra, Lampung, Bangka Belitung, Banten, West and East Java, West and South Kalimantan, North and Southeast Sulawesi, East and West Nusa Tenggara, Maluku, and North Maluku. Mosquitoes were collected using the human landing catches (HLCs), light trap, and morning resting collection. The larva survey was conducted in potential habitats of Cx. quinquefasciatus. The mosquito was detected for the JE virus using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The distribution of Cx. quinquefasciatus was recorded using a GPS tool and visualized using Global Mapper. The results showed that Cx. quinquefasciatus in 15 provinces had similar behavior. The Cx. quinquefasciatus sucked blood indoors and was found throughout the night. Peak density of Cx. quinquefasciatus varies by province. Cx. quinquefasciatus breeding places are found in most ecosystems in various altitudes. Based on PCR examination, the JE virus has not been detected, thus lowering the potential for JE transmission in some provinces in Indonesia.