Estimation of adult density of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in some hilly areas of Pakistan.

Aedes albopictus is a vector of dengue and chikungunya. In present study we recorded the adult density of A. albopictus in four different cities in Pakistan (Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Abbotabad and Mansehra). The highest adult density of A. albopictus was observed at Shakarparian (Rawalpindi). We found a negative correlation between density of A. albopictus and elevation. However, there was a strong positive correlation between adult densities of A. albopictus and human population, vegetation thickness, temperature and rain fall. Present study is the first report on A. albopictus density in the study areas. This study will be helpful for mosquito researchers and public health professionals and agencies to understand the ecology and distribution of A. albopictus and aid in developing better strategies for the control of this mosquito species in the above mentioned study areas.