Researchers at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) have issued a warning after detecting a new Anopheles mosquito species in urban areas. This mosquito prefers human-made environments and could heighten malaria risks in cities. Monitoring efforts continue across several counties.
Community health worker William Omwansa collects mosquito eggs from a pond in Syokimau, Machakos County, using specialized tools like a scoop and filtered bucket. Trained by KEMRI, he identifies egg types, selects collection sites, and records data for research. Anopheles eggs float on water and remain highly viable, unlike other species, and are preserved in chemical-filled vials before lab analysis.
This Anopheles species was first detected in northern Kenya's Turkana and Marsabit counties, believed to have entered via transport routes from Ethiopia. Originating from South Asia and Arabia, it was discovered in Africa in Djibouti in 2012, leading to a sharp rise in malaria cases there. Unlike typical rural mosquitoes, it thrives in urban settings such as car wash areas and construction trenches.
Its presence is confirmed in counties including Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Lamu, Tana River, and Kitui. KEMRI researchers are surveying 21 at-risk counties. Samples are analyzed in Kisumu labs using advanced techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to determine species and behaviors.
The AnoSTEP Africa project examines its impact on malaria control efforts. “This could be a big problem if we don't take early action,” one researcher said. Experts stress community cooperation in removing stagnant water and improving sanitation to reduce breeding risks.
