Vol. 3, Issue 2, Part A (2016)

Author(s): Ahmed UC, Matur BM and Malann YD

Abstract: Studies on the vector competence and their role in the transmission of malaria and filariasis in Makurdi, Nigeria were carried out over a 6 month period in four localities. A total of 475 adult female mosquitoes were morphologically identified and dissected using standard procedures to determine the parity rates, insemination rates, age structure, oocyst, sporozoite and microfilarial worms. 156(32.84%) were Anopheles gambiae, 79(16.63%) were A. funestus and 240(50.53%) were Culex quinquefasciatus. Of these, 407(85.68%) were parous, while 68(14.32%) were nulliparous. The findings indicate that Makurdi is endemic for malaria with A. gambiae contributing a higher overall transmission potential when compared with A. funestus and C. quinquefasciatus. The occurrence of A. gambiae, A. funestus, and C. quinquefasciatus is suggestive of the prevalence of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and filariasis in the area. Therefore, intensive vector control programmes and public enlightenment especially on human activities that encourage mosquito breeding are recommended.

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