Project Number: 5410-32000-014-15
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jul 06, 2004
End Date: Apr 30, 2009

Objective:
The objective of this cooperative research project is to conduct geo-spatial analyses of climatic and bio-geographic factors that influence the distribution and vector competence of Culex tarsalis in the inter-mountain West. This mosquito species is a very competent vector of WNV, and using GIS to analyze and interpret climatic and bio-geographic factors that support mosquito populations will define spatial patterns where risk for exposure to WNV is high for humans, livestock, and wildlife populations. The same methods will be applied to assess risk of a potential Rift Valley fever virus introduction.

Approach:
The goal is to be able to predict areas and conditions of high and low risk for WNV. This will focus mosquito control programs and call attention to the need for use of personal protection methods (insect repellents). Vector-borne diseases are the product of habitats that support vector populations, ambient temperatures that enhance rates of larval development and virus amplification, and wildlife species that serve as donors of virus ingested during vector blood feeding. Using GIS, it will be possible to predict geographic areas and seasonal patterns that are necessary for outbreaks of arbovirus to occur. GIS methods provide powerful tools for spatial analysis of climatic and biogeographic factors that promote vector competence among mosquito populations. We will use satellite imagery and ground-based data to define environmental profiles for habitats and areas that support populations of C. tarsalis. These data will define most suitable habitats and best conditions for the species and serve as a basis for predictions of where and when this mosquito is most abundant on a larger spatial scale. Climatic data superposed on the spatial abundance of C. tarsalis will enable predictions of maximum risk for WNV transmission, and potentially, Rift Valley fever virus.