Isolation of eastern equine encephalitis virus from Aedes sollicitans during an epizootic in southern New Jersey.

This research studied the major outbreak of Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE) in New Jersey in 1982, which they found was carried by the Aedes sollicitans mosquito species. Despite the presence of the virus, no human cases were reported during the outbreak.

Overview of Findings

• The study focused on the outbreak of Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE), a mosquito-borne disease, in coastal areas of New Jersey in 1982.
• During the outbreak, EEE virus was isolated three times from the mosquito species Aedes sollicitans. These mosquitoes were collected from salt marshes.

Timing of Isolation

• The isolation of the virus was made during the late summer and fall, typical peak times for mosquito populations.
• The discovery of the virus in Aedes sollicitans coincided with either an increase in the population of a different mosquito species, Culiseta melanura, or instances of high EEE virus levels in that species.

The Role of Aedes sollicitans

• Though no human cases of EEE were reported during the outbreak, the findings suggest that Aedes sollicitans mosquitoes are potentially capable of playing an important role as epidemic vectors in the transmission of EEE in the areas studied.
• This assumption is based on the fact that human cases of EEE have been most common in the coastal areas of New Jersey where Aedes sollicitans mosquitoes were found to be carrying the virus.

Significance of the Research

• Based on these findings, researchers suggest that the role of Aedes sollicitans in the transmission of EEE should be further studied as they could be a significant factor in controlling and preventing future outbreaks.
• This research not only helps in understanding the ecology of EEE virus but also provides a clue towards formulating effective public health strategies, especially in areas where these specific species of mosquitoes are found.