Molecular xenosurveillance of <i>Aedes</i> mosquitoes reveals dengue virus serotype-2 during an outbreak in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The timely detection of arboviral pathogens like dengue virus, through surveillance is critical for developing early warning systems and preventing outbreaks. However, limited surveillance capacity in resource-constrained settings creates gaps that can be addressed by implementing sustainable and cost-effective surveillance strategies. This study demonstrates the feasibility of molecular xenosurveillance (MX), which is a vector-based, non-invasive surveillance method for dengue virus surveillance in <i>Aedes aegypti</i> mosquitoes in Dhaka, Bangladesh. By detecting and identifying dengue virus serotype-2 (DENV-2) using real-time RT-PCR, this study also provides evidence of the method's potential for generating deeper epidemiological insights. These findings highlight the value of MX as a complementary tool to existing surveillance systems. Integrating MX into routine entomological surveillance could significantly enhance national preparedness and response to dengue outbreaks.