30 June 2015 | Moritz UG Kraemer, Marianne E Sinka, Kirsten A Duda, Adrian QN Mylne, Freya M Shearer, Christopher M Barker, Chester G Moore, Roberta G Carvalho, Giovanini E Coelho, Wim Van Bortel, Guy Hendrickx, Francis Schaffner, Iqbal RF Elyazar, Hwa-Jen Teng, Oliver J Brady, Jane P Messina, David M Pigott, Thomas W Scott, David L Smith, GR William Wint, Nick Golding, Simon I Hay
This study presents the first comprehensive global distribution maps of the two major arbovirus vectors, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, based on the largest available dataset of occurrence records and environmental variables. The maps show that both species are now present on all continents, including North America and Europe, with Aedes aegypti having the widest distribution ever recorded. The study highlights the rapid expansion of these vectors due to increased global trade and travel, and emphasizes the importance of understanding their current and future distribution for public health planning. The maps are used to define the spatial limits of current autochthonous transmission of dengue and chikungunya viruses. The study also identifies key environmental factors, such as temperature and precipitation, that influence the distribution of these vectors. The results show that Aedes aegypti is primarily found in the tropics and sub-tropics, while Aedes albopictus has a broader range, including southern Europe, northern China, and the United States. The study also highlights the need for further research to understand the factors driving the rapid expansion of these vectors and to develop effective control strategies. The maps and data are freely available for use in public health planning and research.This study presents the first comprehensive global distribution maps of the two major arbovirus vectors, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, based on the largest available dataset of occurrence records and environmental variables. The maps show that both species are now present on all continents, including North America and Europe, with Aedes aegypti having the widest distribution ever recorded. The study highlights the rapid expansion of these vectors due to increased global trade and travel, and emphasizes the importance of understanding their current and future distribution for public health planning. The maps are used to define the spatial limits of current autochthonous transmission of dengue and chikungunya viruses. The study also identifies key environmental factors, such as temperature and precipitation, that influence the distribution of these vectors. The results show that Aedes aegypti is primarily found in the tropics and sub-tropics, while Aedes albopictus has a broader range, including southern Europe, northern China, and the United States. The study also highlights the need for further research to understand the factors driving the rapid expansion of these vectors and to develop effective control strategies. The maps and data are freely available for use in public health planning and research.