Detection and genetic characterization of arboviruses and other viruses from mosquitoes collected in Southeastern and Central Senegal, October 2022

Mosquito-associated virus distribution and genetic data are incomplete in
Senegal. This study updates information on virus diversity, distribution,
and phylogenetic relationships through entomological and molecular
surveillance. Mosquitoes were collected in October 2022 from 10 districts
in Senegal, identified morphologically, and tested using qRT-PCR. Positive
samples were sequenced for genetic characterisation. A total of 42 virus
isolates belonging to 7 viruses (Bagaza virus (BAGV), Barkedji virus,
Sindbis virus 5SINV), Usutu virus (USUV), Dezidougou virus, Densovirus,
and Pestivirus A (PESVA)) were detected in 6 mosquito species (Mansonia
uniformis, Culex neavei, Anopheles coustani, Cx. cinereus, Aedes aegypti,
and Ae. vexans). Most detections (92.9%) occurred in mosquitoes from
ponds. BAGV and SINV were recorded for the first time in southeastern
Senegal, and PESVA was detected in field-collected mosquitoes for the
first time. Phylogenetic analyses in the associated article, revealed
PESVA clustering with strains from Asia and Egypt, BAGV with strains from
Senegal and Spain, USUV with a Senegalese strain, and SINV with strains
from Spain and Kenya. This dataset documents new geographic records and
vector associations for several viruses in Senegal, providing baseline
information for arbovirus surveillance and risk assessment.