The finding of a possible down-regulation of a gene encoding a salivary gland mucin is notable in the light of a previous study by Girard et al in which expression of a salivary gland mucin of Culex quinquefasciatus was also found to be modulated in response to Flavivirus infection, although in that particular case, the mosquito/virus model is different (Cx. quinquefasciatus/West Nile virus) and the mucin expression was decreased [35]. The gene discussed is MUC5AC; the disease is Flavivirus Infections.