Aedes albopictus, an arbovirus vector: From the darkness to the light

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894), is an invasive species that can be found on all continents. The species, originally considered a secondary vector of viruses such as Dengue viruses, has recently been suggested to play a role in the transmission of Chikungunya virus in several countries bordering the Indian Ocean, Central Africa and Europe. Here we review the current geographic range and the relevant biological traits of A. albopictus in order to explain its rapid spread. We examine and discuss recent changes in its role as a vector, particularly in the transmission of arboviruses, and its importance in the current and future emergence of pathogens. Finally, we report conventional and innovative ways to control A. albopictus. (C) 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.