Peri-domestic entomological surveillance using private traps allows detection of dengue virus in Aedes albopictus during an autochthonous transmission event in mainland France, late summer 2023

While locally-acquired dengue virus (DENV) human infections occur in mainland France since 2010, data to identify the mosquito species involved and to trace the virus are frequently lacking. Supported by a local network gathering public health agencies and research laboratories, we analysed, in late summer 2023, mosquitoes from privately-owned traps within a French urban neighbourhood affected by a dengue cluster. The cluster, in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, comprised three cases, including two autochthonous ones. Upon return from a recent visit to the French Caribbean Islands, the third case had consulted healthcare because of dengue-compatible symptoms, but dengue had not been recognised. For the two autochthonous cases, DENV-specific antibodies in serum or a positive quantitative PCR for DENV confirmed DENV infection. The third case had anti-flavivirus IgMs. No DENV genetic sequences were obtained from affected individuals but Aedes albopictus mosquitoes trapped less than 200 m from the autochthonous cases" residence contained DENV. Genetic data from the mosquito-derived DENV linked the cluster to the 2023-2024 dengue outbreak in the French Caribbean Islands. This study highlights the importance of raising mosquito-borne disease awareness among healthcare professionals. It demonstrates Ae. albopictus as a DENV vector in mainland France and the value of private mosquito traps for entomo-virological surveillance.

Author(s): Viginier Barbara, Klitting Raphaëlle, Galon Clémence, Bonnefoux Violaine, Bellet Christophe, Fontaine Albin, Brottet Élise, Paty Marie-Claire, Mercurol Armelle, Ragozin Nathalie, Moutailler Sara, Grard Gilda, de Lamballerie Xavier, Arnaud Frédérick, Ratinier Maxime, Raquin Vincent

Publishing year: 2024

Pages: 22-33

In relation to

Our latest news

news

2026 “Sexual Behavior” Survey (ERAS) for men who have sex with men

news

Hervé Maisonneuve has been appointed scientific integrity officer for a...

Visuel illustratif

news

Public Health France 2026 Barometer: Launch of the Survey