A new study in Science Advances reveals that temperature and rainfall significantly impact dengue fever spread by affecting mosquito populations. Dengue cases are rising dramatically worldwide, particularly in the Americas. Findings suggest targeted, region-specific mosquito control strategies are necessary to mitigate the disease’s transmission.
A recent study published in Science Advances has affirmed that temperature and rainfall significantly impact the spread of dengue fever by affecting mosquito populations and disease transmission. The research analyzed climatic data across regions, revealing that these environmental factors are critical in predicting outbreaks.
In the Americas, dengue cases surged from 4.1 million in 2023 to over 10.6 million in 2024, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported more than 14 million cases and over 10,000 fatalities worldwide in the same year, highlighting a concerning upward trend in dengue incidence.
The influence of rainfall on dengue transmission is complex and contentious. While some researchers assert that rainfall enhances the spread of the disease, others argue it mitigates mosquito development by washing away breeding sites, resulting in ongoing debates within the scientific community.
Scientists at the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) established a novel methodology to evaluate the relationship between climate variables and dengue incidence. This study was conducted in the Philippines and Puerto Rico, providing insight into how different climatic conditions affect disease spread and mosquito populations.
The findings indicated that increased temperatures correlate with heightened dengue cases. In eastern regions, augmented rainfall appeared to exacerbate the situation, whereas in western areas, excessive rainfall reduced mosquito populations by eliminating breeding grounds. Longer dry seasons led to increased mosquito reproduction and, consequently, higher dengue transmission rates.
Based on these findings, the study advocates for specific intervention strategies tailored to regional climate patterns. Areas characterized by prolonged dry seasons necessitate consistent mosquito control measures, while those with shorter dry seasons may derive benefits from natural rainfall effects. The implications of this research extend to other mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria, influenza, and the Zika virus.
The recent study underscores the urgent need to understand the interplay between climate and dengue transmission, revealing that temperature and rainfall significantly influence mosquito populations. With rising dengue cases worldwide, targeted intervention measures tailored to specific regional climatic conditions are essential in combating this growing public health threat.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
