Aedes Aegypti: The Notorious Mosquito Vector

A Vector of Disease

Aedes aegypti, a diminutive yet perilous mosquito, has gained notoriety as a vector of several debilitating viruses.

Measuring a mere 4-to-7-millimetres, this dark-hued mosquito carries distinguishing white markings on its legs and a lyre-shaped marking on its upper body. Despite its small size, Aedes aegypti poses a significant threat as a carrier of:
- Yellow fever virus
- Dengue virus
- Chikungunya virus
- Zika virus

Role in Disease Transmission

Native to Africa and Asia, Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes Albopictus, are suspected to facilitate the spread of several diseases. These mosquitoes, including Aedes aegypti, require vertebrate blood for sustenance. Specialized receptors on their antennae enable them to detect potential hosts.

Yellow Fever and Dengue: Aedes Aegypti's Deadly Impact

Aedes aegypti holds the unenviable distinction of being the most well-studied mosquito species. This notoriety stems from the groundbreaking discovery by Walter Reed that it transmitted yellow fever to humans. Additionally, Aedes aegypti is a known carrier of dengue, a virus that causes a severe flu-like illness.