Aedes albopictus mosquito in Laos forest.

Northern Laos Faces Rising Arboviral Threat: How Insecticide Resistance is Changing the Game

Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A new study reveals alarming levels of insecticide resistance in Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the primary vectors of dengue and chikungunya, demanding urgent action to protect vulnerable communities."

For decades, Southeast Asia has been battling the increasing reach of Aedes albopictus, or the Asian tiger mosquito. Originally confined to the region's rainforests, this adaptable mosquito has now spread to nearly every corner of the globe, turning into a major carrier of diseases like dengue and chikungunya. In Laos, where dengue outbreaks are a recurring threat, understanding the behavior and resilience of these mosquitoes is critical.

A recent study published in PLOS ONE sheds light on the concerning rise of insecticide resistance in Aedes albopictus populations in Northern Laos. The research delves into the mosquito's habits, breeding patterns, and ability to withstand common insecticides, revealing crucial insights for more effective vector control strategies.

This article breaks down the study's key findings, exploring the implications for public health and offering a clear path forward for communities and health organizations working to combat the spread of these debilitating diseases. This is about more than just mosquitoes; it's about protecting the health and livelihoods of entire regions.

Why is Aedes Albopictus Thriving in Northern Laos?

Aedes albopictus mosquito in Laos forest.

The study, conducted across several provinces in Northern Laos, highlights the mosquito's remarkable adaptability. Researchers collected adult mosquitoes from a variety of habitats, including forests, villages, and rubber plantations, using human-baited traps. Larval surveys were also conducted to identify common breeding sites.

Here's what they discovered:

Year-Round Presence: Aedes albopictus is active throughout the year, with a six-fold increase in population during the rainy season, creating a higher risk of disease transmission during these months.
24-Hour Activity: Unlike some mosquitoes that primarily bite at dawn or dusk, Aedes albopictus females are active throughout the day and night, peaking in activity around 6:00 PM.
Forest and Plantation Preference: The study found a higher prevalence of arboviruses in mosquitoes collected from secondary forests and rubber plantations compared to villages, suggesting these environments are key areas for disease transmission.
Breeding Hotspots: The majority of Aedes albopictus larvae were found in mature rubber plantations, specifically in latex collection cups, small water containers, and discarded tires.

These findings paint a picture of a highly adaptable mosquito that thrives in both natural and human-altered environments. The abundance of breeding sites in rubber plantations, coupled with the mosquito's ability to breed in small containers, contributes to its widespread presence.

What Can Be Done to Combat Insecticide Resistance?

The study's most alarming finding was the widespread resistance of Aedes albopictus populations to common insecticides. All populations tested showed resistance to DDT, and most were resistant to malathion. Furthermore, several larval populations exhibited resistance or suspected resistance to temephos, an insecticide commonly used to control mosquito larvae. This widespread resistance poses a significant challenge to current vector control efforts, demanding a shift in strategy.

About this Article -

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206387, Alternate LINK

Title: Bionomics And Insecticide Resistance Of The Arboviral Vector Aedes Albopictus In Northern Lao Pdr

Subject: Multidisciplinary

Journal: PLOS ONE

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Authors: Julie-Anne A. Tangena, Sébastien Marcombe, Phoutmany Thammavong, Somsanith Chonephetsarath, Boudsady Somphong, Kouxiong Sayteng, Marc Grandadam, Ian W. Sutherland, Steve W. Lindsay, Paul T. Brey

Published: 2018-10-25

Everything You Need To Know

What is the significance of Aedes albopictus in the context of this issue?

The mosquito species known as Aedes albopictus, also called the Asian tiger mosquito, is the primary carrier of diseases like dengue and chikungunya in Northern Laos. This mosquito's adaptability and ability to thrive in diverse environments, including forests, villages, and rubber plantations, makes it a significant threat. Its presence throughout the year, with increased populations during the rainy season, amplifies the risk of disease transmission, impacting the health and well-being of communities.

What are the implications of insecticide resistance in the mosquito populations?

The research highlights a concerning increase in insecticide resistance among Aedes albopictus populations. This resistance, particularly to insecticides like DDT and malathion, as well as temephos in larvae, poses a significant challenge to current vector control strategies. The implications are profound, as it reduces the effectiveness of conventional methods, potentially leading to increased disease transmission and requiring a shift towards alternative control measures.

What are the key behaviors of the mosquito that make it a concern?

The study revealed several key behaviors. Aedes albopictus is active throughout the year, with a significant population surge during the rainy season. Unlike many mosquito species, it bites both day and night, with peak activity around 6:00 PM. Furthermore, the research indicated a higher prevalence of arboviruses in mosquitoes found in secondary forests and rubber plantations, suggesting these areas are key for disease transmission. The adaptability of Aedes albopictus is clear, thriving in both natural and human-altered environments.

Where are the primary breeding sites of the Aedes albopictus mosquito?

Breeding sites are primarily in mature rubber plantations, specifically within latex collection cups, small water containers, and discarded tires. These habitats provide ample breeding grounds for Aedes albopictus larvae. This widespread presence of breeding sites, coupled with the mosquito's ability to utilize small containers, contributes to the mosquito's proliferation and the spread of diseases like dengue and chikungunya.

What strategies can be employed to combat insecticide resistance?

Combating insecticide resistance in Aedes albopictus requires a strategic shift in vector control efforts. Given the widespread resistance to insecticides like DDT, malathion, and temephos, alternative methods are necessary. These might include using different types of insecticides, implementing source reduction strategies to eliminate breeding sites, and employing integrated vector management approaches. Effective strategies are critical to protect public health and prevent the spread of arboviral diseases.