Molecular detection of dengue virus serotype-3 from wild-caught Aedes aegypti across arboviral endemic regions of Ethiopia

We detected DENV-3 in Ae. aegypti from Afar and Dire Dawa before an outbreak happened. We reported low level of MLE value from both sites. The finding provides valuable information for public health decision-making. Continuous surveillance at different times is important to detect early signs of an outbreak and identify information needed for timely responses. CHIKV was not detected in the current study, and by considering the past outbreaks and regional transmission, continuous surveillance remains important. Aedes aegypti was predominantly reported from three of the study sites, whereas Ae. simpsoni complex is predominantly reported from Wolaita Sodo, and its vectorial role is uncertain. Further studies recommended to explore the screening of other arboviruses and use of advanced techniques to gain insights into the circulating arboviruses in Aedes mosquitoes in Ethiopia.