Interaction of Chikungunya Virus with the Mosquito Vector

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) transmitted by mosquito vectors. Specific aspects of CHIKV interaction with its vectors play a significant role in virus biology, and therefore have a direct influence on the process of CHIKV emergence and the resultant dynamics of outbreaks. The focus of this review is to summarize current understanding of the intrinsic (determined by virus and mosquito genetics) and extrinsic (environmental) factors as well as the complex interplay between them that governs the process of the CHIKVvector interaction, determines CHIKV transmission dynamics and ultimately the process of disease emergence. Recent advances in CHIKV control through vector manipulation are also discussed.