Quantifying the potential relative roles of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus in dengue transmission: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of dengue virus prevalence in both vectors

Background: Aedes aegypti is the principal dengue virus (DENV) vector, while Ae. albopictus is often considered to have a negligible role. However, limited field data comparing their involvement in DENV transmission hampers accurate evaluation of current interventions targeting only one species and dengue outbreak risk assessments in non-endemic areas.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies assessing DENV prevalence in both Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti. We searched EMBASE, PubMed, SCIELO, and Global Index Medicus up to 15 September 2023. Risk ratios (RR) were calculated using fixed-effects model in meta-analyses, summarizing prevalences in Ae. albopictus vs Ae. aegypti.

Results: Of 5,432 records screened, 36 studies from 14 countries and territories were included (covering 96,884 Ae. aegypti and 106,205 Ae. albopictus mosquitoes). Overall, Ae. albopictus showed a 35% lower DENV prevalence than Ae. aegypti (RR=0.65, 95% CI=0.56–0.75, I²=93%). The difference was more pronounced pre-2000 (63% lower; RR=0.37; CI=0·30,0·46), but post-2000 data showed no significant difference (2000s: RR=1·17; 95% CI=0·81,1·69; since 2010 RR=0·86; 95% CI=0·68,1·07).

Conclusion: While Ae. aegypti remains the primary vector, recent evidence suggests Ae. albopictus plays a more notable role in DENV transmission than previously thought. Effective vector control strategies should therefore target both species.