A Risk Model for the Lyme Disease Vector Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Prairie Provinces of Canada

Author:

Gabriele-Rivet, V, Koffi, JK, Pelcat, Y, Arsenault, J, Cheng, A, Lindsay, LR, Lysyk, TJ, Rochon, K, and Ogden, NH

Publication type:

Journal Article

Publication date:

2017-02

Journal/Series title:

J Med Entomol

Volume:

2017 Feb 26

URL:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28399276

Abstract:

We developed a map of potential risk areas for future I. scapularis establishment in the Canadian Prairie Provinces. Six I. scapularis risk algorithms were developed using different formulations of three indices for environmental suitability. This algorithm had good (>80%) sensitivity in predicting positive I. scapularis surveillance sites, but low (50%) specificity as expected in this region where not all environmentally suitable habitats are expected to be occupied.