Recent times have seen a significant rise in the number of Dengue fever cases globally and in our country. While the factors attributed to the exact causes are many, one particular reason that is being looked at seriously is climate change.
Can climate change influence the spread of this life-threatening disease? Here’s what experts have to say.
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue is serious medical condition that is transmitted predominantly by the breeding of mosquitoes. To prevent any potential, life threatening complications, it is essential to not ignore the mildest of the symptoms and seek medical help immediately.
Dengue fever symptoms can range from mild fever and headache to more sever symptoms that can lead to Haemorrhage.
Recent studies have proven that the impact of climate change has had a huge role in spiralling the number of Dengue fever cases.
How climate change impacts?
Climate change is significantly altering the conditions that are seen to favour the transmission of dengue fever. Here’s a more in-depth look at how:
- Warmer temperatures have facilitated the easy breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, the premier category of mosquitoes, known to be the main reason behind spreading Dengue virus.
- Not just the actual summer season but even extended period of warmth before the onset of winter has led to easy transmission of the virus.
- Changes in rainfall patterns have contributed to the breeding of mosquitoes during off seasons. This has significantly contributed to the rise in the number of Dengue cases.
- Not being able to effectively control the ever-increasing mosquito population has been one of the key reasons behind the increase of not just Dengue but many other mosquitoes borne diseases.
- Studies have also indicated possible genetic mutations that can occur due to inconsistent climate changes that have fuelled the Dengue virus to remain active for more longer than expected.
- Lack of basic hygiene facilities, especially for those who live in remote areas that are prone to get impacted by contageous diseases, especially during the monsoon season has contributed to the surge in dengue fever cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is climate change contributing to the increase in dengue cases?
A: Warmer temperatures, increases rainfall and higher humidity which signify climate change contribute to the breeding of the Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the dengue virus. Rapid breeding leads to a more widespread and frequent dengue outbreaks.
Q: Why does warmer weather lead to more dengue fever cases?
A: Warmer temperatures create a favourable condition for mosquitoes to reproduce more frequently. Additionally, the dengue virus replicates more effectively in warmer conditions, increasing the likelihood of transmission from mosquitoes to humans.
Q: How does increased rainfall affect dengue transmission?
A: Increased rainfall contributes to setting up more breeding sites for mosquitoes, such as puddles, stagnant water, and other water-holding containers. These environments are ideal for mosquito larvae to develop, leading to larger mosquito populations and an increased risk of dengue transmission.
Q: Can climate change lead to dengue outbreaks in areas where it was previously uncommon?
A: Yes, as global temperatures rise, regions that were not conducive for Aedes mosquitoes, are becoming more probable. This means that dengue fever can emerge in new areas, including higher altitudes and temperate regions, where it was previously rare or non-existent.
Q: What can be done to mitigate the impact of climate change on dengue fever?
A: Mitigating the impact of climate change on dengue involves both short-term and long-term strategies. Efforts should include controlling mosquito populations through environmental management, public health campaigns, the use of insecticides and investing in sustainable practices to prevent the further spread of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue.
Conclusion
Addressing the impact of climate change on dengue requires a comprehensive approach that includes vector control, public health measures, and climate change mitigation efforts. Thanks to the use of technology in the form of TeleHealth, symptoms of serious medical conditions like Dengue can be effectively handled in the initial stages thereby reducing the risk of life-threatening impacts. As climate change continues to intensify, the threat of dengue will likely increase. By understanding the complex relationship between climate change and dengue, we can develop more effective strategies to protect public health and reduce the burden of this disease. To know how to effectively manage Dengue Fever by effectively using technology, feel free to connect with Apollo TeleHealth, the trusted name in TeleHealth services.
