Comparative assessment of the Vector Competence and transmission of malaria and filariasis in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

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.