Which statement about Aedes albopictus in Georgia is correct?

Which statement about Aedes albopictus in Georgia is correct?

• A. Widespread nuisance in GA.
• B. Eggs can withstand desiccation for up to 1 year.
• C. Larval emergence occurs after rainfall and rising water levels.
• D. Vector of dengue, heartworms, and La Crosse encephalitis.

Answer: (A)

Aedes albopictus has become established across much of Georgia and is a frequent daytime biter in urban and suburban areas, making it a noticeable nuisance to residents. This widespread presence in the state is the best-supported statement because it directly reflects the practical impact you’d observe in Georgia—people report bites and irritation in many neighborhoods, which drives nuisance-control efforts. Egg desiccation can occur for extended periods, and larvae do hatch after rainfall when containers fill, which are true biological traits of container-breeding Aedes, but they are not as specific to Georgia’s current situation as the broad nuisance presence. The idea that this species is the primary vector for La Crosse encephalitis isn’t accurate, since La Crosse virus is mainly associated with Aedes triseriatus, with Aedes albopictus playing a much less prominent role. While Aedes albopictus can transmit dengue and other viruses, the statement combining dengue, heartworms, and La Crosse encephalitis overstates its role for the Georgia context.

Aedes albopictus has become established across much of Georgia and is a frequent daytime biter in urban and suburban areas, making it a noticeable nuisance to residents. This widespread presence in the state is the best-supported statement because it directly reflects the practical impact you’d observe in Georgia—people report bites and irritation in many neighborhoods, which drives nuisance-control efforts.

Egg desiccation can occur for extended periods, and larvae do hatch after rainfall when containers fill, which are true biological traits of container-breeding Aedes, but they are not as specific to Georgia’s current situation as the broad nuisance presence. The idea that this species is the primary vector for La Crosse encephalitis isn’t accurate, since La Crosse virus is mainly associated with Aedes triseriatus, with Aedes albopictus playing a much less prominent role. While Aedes albopictus can transmit dengue and other viruses, the statement combining dengue, heartworms, and La Crosse encephalitis overstates its role for the Georgia context.