DENV-2 Circulation and Host Preference Among Highly Anthropophilic, Outdoor-Biting <em>Aedes aegypti</em> in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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In Tanzania, dengue outbreaks have occurred almost annually over the past decade, with each new outbreak becoming more severe. This study investigated the prevalence of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes in the wild Aedes aegypti and their blood sources to determine human exposure risk in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A two-year longitudinal survey was conducted in Ilala, Kinondoni, and Temeke districts of Dar es Salaam to sample Ae. aegypti mosquitoes using Biogents Sentinel trap (BGS), Prokopack aspiration and Gravid Aedes trap (GAT). Collected mosquitoes were pooled in groups of 10 and tested for DENV1-4 serotypes using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Blood meal sources were identified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Of 854 tested pools, only DENV-2 serotype was detected in all districts (Temeke (3/371 pools), Ilala (1/206 pools) and Kinondoni (1/277-pools)). Blood meal analysis showed a strong preference for humans (81%) and mixed blood meals (17%). Out of 354 collected host seeking Ae. aegypypti, 78.5% were captured outdoors and 21.5% indoors. This study confirms the circulation of DENV-2 in Ae. aegypti populations, indicating a potential dengue outbreak risk in Tanzania. The mosquitoes’ strong preference for human hosts and predominance in outdoor settings pose challenges for dengue control efforts.