151 - Mitochondrial population phylogenomics of the West Nile virus vector Culex quinquefasciatus in the southwestern United States

Abstract: Since the introduction of West Nile Virus into the United States in 1999, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported over 51,000 cases of WNV disease, 30% of which have been noted within the southwestern United States. West Nile Virus is an enzootic pathogen that spills-over into human populations when humans come into contact with infected mosquitoes. The primary vectors of WNV, Cx. quinquefasciatus and Cx. pipiens, are vital to the maintenance and transmission of WNV. Although the genetic structure of Cx. pipiens complex populations have been extensively studied around the world, little is known about the genetic composition of Cx. quinquefasciatus populations, within Arizona, the surrounding southwestern United States, and associated implications for WNV circulation. To better understand Cx. quinquefasciatus populations in the region, we developed a long-range PCR assay, sequencing strategy, and bioinformatics pipeline targeting whole mitochondrial genomes. These tools have helped us to better understand population clusters and structure over time and space within and across pooled samples obtained during routine surveillance activities conducted by Vector Control Division of Maricopa County Environmental Services and Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.