Surveillance exotic mosquitoes in Belgium

Study Extent

Objective 1: to detect possible foci of introduction and establishment of EMS at early stage in Belgium (Scenario 1: no established EMS). Objective 2a: to quantify the establishment of Ae. j. japonicus at Natoye and asses the quality/efficacy of the control measures used (Scenario 2: locally established EMS - already controlled). Objective 2b: to quantify the establishment of Ae. koreicus at Maasmechelen and detect the possible spread of this EMS (Scenario 2: locally established EMS - not controlled yet) Objective 3: to evaluate the efficiency of the oviposition trap compared to the CO2- trap (MMLP) in low density areas of Aedes species. Objective 4: to support rapid implementation of control measures to eliminate the EMS population Objective 5: to disseminate project outputs to the scientific community, end users and the general public

Sampling

First, the scenarios, which Belgium is facing, were identified according to the ECDC guidelines. Second, the surveillance strategy and the methods were identified based on the guidelines and adjusted to the Belgium context. Two areas colonised by IMS and 20 potential points of entry (PoE) were selected. Mosquito Magnet Liberty Plus (CO2-baited) traps (23) and oviposition traps (147) were set-up, and larval sampling was performed monthly or bi-monthly from July till October 2012. Finally, the costs and workload of the surveillance activities were compared to the estimates provided by the ECDC guidelines.

Quality Control

All was checked

Method steps

1. Collection in the field

Mosquitoes

1. Insecta
   rank: class
2. Culicidae
   rank: family

Belgium