## Vector Identification **Key Point:** Aedes aegypti is the principal urban vector for all three arboviruses — dengue, chikungunya, and Zika — across India and tropical regions worldwide. ### Characteristics of Aedes aegypti | Feature | Detail | |---------|--------| | **Habitat** | Peridomestic; breeds in stagnant water in containers, tyres, flower pots | | **Activity** | Diurnal (peaks early morning and late afternoon) | | **Feeding** | Anthropophilic; prefers human blood | | **Distribution** | Urban and semi-urban areas | | **Identification** | White markings on legs and body (lyre-shaped pattern on thorax) | **High-Yield:** Aedes aegypti is the ONLY vector capable of transmitting all three viruses simultaneously in a single geographic area. This is why dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are often co-endemic in Indian cities. **Clinical Pearl:** The diurnal biting pattern of Aedes aegypti explains why dengue and chikungunya cases spike during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons when container-breeding habitats proliferate. **Mnemonic:** **AEDES** = **A**nthropophilic, **E**arly morning biter, **D**iurnal, **E**xophilic (prefers to rest indoors), **D**omestic breeder, **S**triped legs.
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