On the move from the tropics- transmission of mosquito-borne viruses in temperate climates

Many mosquito-borne (MOBO) viruses, such as Zika and Dengue viruses have pandemic potential, increasing their geographical spread and impact as a consequence of increased global transport, in combination with climate changes. Most research on MOBO viruses have been conducted under tropical conditions.

In temperate regions, the preconditions are substantially different and MOBO viruses need to replicate at lower temperatures and persist through winter, when the vector mosquitoes undertake months of inactivity.

This project will use a cross-disciplinary combination of excellence in virology and vector biology, to provide essential data for prognoses on future possible outbreaks caused by MOBO viruses.We will experimentally investigate temperature dependent processes affecting Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, West Nile and Sindbis viruses in their natural mosquito vector species Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens.

These processes include infection dynamics under northern European conditions, virus persistence throughout vector hibernation and vertical transmission of virus.

We will also initiate surveillance of Ae. albopictus introduction to Sweden and evaluate temperature effects on important life traits.

The data generated through this project is crucial for modelling the risk of establishment and outbreaks of these viruses in temperate regions. Thus, the project fills an urgently important but unexplored line of research on MOBO viruses with pandemic potential.