Why Are Culex Mosquitoes Effective Vectors?

An effective vector must:

  • Be able to be infected by the virus;
  • Feed on animals in which the virus can replicate effectively;
  • Live long enough and feed frequently enough to spread the virus from animal to animal through its bites.
C tarsalis mosquito.
C. tarsalis
C. pipiens mosquito.
C. pipiens
C. quinquefasciatus mosquito.
C. quinquefasciatus

How the Mosquitoes That Spread West Nile Virus Meet All of These Requirements

Dr. Laura Kramer