Child outdoor physical activity is reduced by prevalence of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus

J Am Mosq Control Assoc. 2013 Mar;29(1):78-80. doi: 10.2987/12-6296R.1.

Abstract

We tested the hypothesis that day-biting mosquitoes contribute to child obesity by reducing opportunities for summer outdoor play. The influence of Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) prevalence on child outdoor physical activity was compared in 2 matched urban communities, one treated for mosquito abatement and one untreated. More time was spent outdoors by children where abatement took place.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aedes*
  • Animals
  • Child
  • Exercise*
  • Humans
  • Mosquito Control*
  • Obesity
  • Urban Population