Presence of Aedes albopictus in Palestine –West Bank.

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study confirmed the establishment of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse, 1894) and provided information about its distribution during the period of July to October 2012 in Salfit district (Northwestern West Bank). Study Design: A cross- sectional study. Methods: A cross- sectional survey was conducted in West Bank - Salfit district to collect larvae and adults of the Aedes albopictus from two localities in Salfit district during the period of July to October 2012. Results: Adult Aedes albopictus were collected from outdoor sites of different habitats in two localities in Salfit district (Mas-ha and AZ-Zawia locality) and different immature stages (larvae and pupae) were found in Salfit district (Mas-ha locality). Limitations of Study The study discussed the presence of Ae. albopictus in two localities in salfit district and data about other species of mosquito were neglegted in the study. Conclusion: The results show that adults and larvae were found confirming the establishment of the species in the area. More studies are needed to understand the ecology and biology of Aedes albopictus and its distribution in Salfit district and its possibility of transmitting viral diseases.