Due to modern technology, as well as the mobility of today's society, Ohio is facing new threats from exotic mosquito species. These include Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Aedes atropalpus, and others. Most of these exotic species are imported when they lay their eggs in containers such as tires that are subsequently transported into Ohio.
Aedes albopictus, otherwise known as the Asian Tiger Mosquito, is the imported species causing the most recent concern among state and national health officials. It is an aggressive biter and has the potential to transmit numerous diseases. These include dengue, yellow fever, LaCrosse encephalitis, and dog heartworm. LaCrosse encephalitis is of particular concern to Ohioans since Ohio has more recorded cases of this disease than any other state. Aedes albopictus is an average size black and white mosquito with a distinctive single white band down the length of the back of its thorax.