Mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) diversity and malaria prevalence in Kovié, prefecture of Zio, Togo

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases are diseases caused by parasites and viruses transmitted by vectors. Africa is home to a rich diversity of vector species which can transmit various diseases including malaria. Human adaptation strategies to climate change such as irrigation and the development of hydro-agricultural areas create a favorable environment that reinforces the development and proliferation of vectors, particularly Culicidae. To determine the composition of mosquito fauna and the malaria prevalence, series of larval surveys and adult mosquito collections (by Spray catch and Human Landin catch) were conducted in Kovié, a peri-urban locality located in the River Zio basin characterized with irrigated rice production. Results showed that the mosquito fauna at Kovié is primarily made up of Anophelinae (78%) and Culicinae (22%), belonging to 4 genera: Mansonia, Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles. The identification of 813 specimens of Anopheles gambiae s.l. using PCR revealed that Anopheles coluzzii was the only species collected. Epidemiological surveys in Kovié medical center showed that malaria was the only mosquito-borne disease recorded in the area. Malaria prevalence in the locality was more or less high among children under 5 years old and pregnant women.