Early Detection and Community-Based Surveillance of Aedes Albopictus in the Razmian Region of Qazvin Province, Iran Publisher Pubmed

Summary: Can residents spot invasive mosquitoes first? Community reports confirmed the Asian tiger mosquito in Qazvin, Iran; routine traps missed the low-density population. #VectorSurveillance #PublicHealth

Barmaki A ; Rassi Y ; Nikpour F ; Najafpour B ; Bagheri H ; Ahadi G ; Yahaghi R ; Abbasi M ; Hosseini F
Source: Scientific Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito, is a globally recognized invasive species and a significant vector for arboviruses such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. While reported in various Northern provinces of Iran, evidence of its detection in Qazvin Province, remained unconfirmed prior to this study. The objective of this research was to conduct early detection and community-based surveillance for invasive Aedes species within this high-risk area. A comprehensive entomological surveillance system was implemented across Qazvin Province (2022–2024), integrating monitoring at Points of Entry, community‑based reporting, and targeted investigations around confirmed dengue cases. Field activities were conducted from April to November each year. Data collection included ovitrap monitoring, larval habitat inspections, and adult mosquito sampling using standardized WHO‑recommended procedures, followed by morphological identification under laboratory conditions. All surveillance information was systematically recorded, validated, and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The presence of Ae. albopictus was confirmed in Razmian. A total of 1,602 mosquito specimens representing eight species from four genera were collected, including 561 eggs, 15 larvae, and 3 adult Ae. albopictus detected across four locations. All positive detections originated from community‑triggered investigations, while ovitraps and routine surveillance at Points of Entry yielded no Aedes specimens. This demonstrates the high sensitivity of community‑based reporting for early detection of low‑density invasive mosquito populations. This study reports the first confirmed detection of Ae. albopictus in Qazvin Province. The findings highlight the essential contribution of community reporting in complementing traditional entomological surveillance and emphasize the need for sustained, people‑centered surveillance strategies to mitigate the risk of future arboviral transmission. © The Author(s) 2026.