Integrating Vector Competence, Mosquito Colonies, and Antiviral Drugs in Arbovirus Research

Arthropod-borne viruses, or arboviruses, are transmitted by mosquitoes and other arthropod vectors. Researching arboviruses and vectorial transmission is crucial due to the significant human and animal health impacts caused by viruses such as West Nile virus, Usutu virus, yellow fever virus, and chikungunya virus. Researchers study the virus life cycle, transmission dynamics, and interactions between the virus, vector, and host. Advances in this research are essential for developing effective vaccines, antiviral treatments, and vector control strategies, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence and spread of these viruses and mitigate their global health burden. This doctoral thesis comprised several research objectives regarding arbovirus transmission and vector surveillance, establishing and maintaining mosquito colonies, and identifying new anti-arboviral drugs.