Variables that May Affect the Transmission of Dengue – A Case Study for Health Management in Asia

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2015

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Muhiuddin Haider and Jamie Turner (2015). Variables that May Affect the Transmission of Dengue – A Case Study for Health Management in Asia, Topics in Public Health, Dr. David Claborn (Ed.), InTech, DOI: 10.5772/59983

Abstract

Dengue, an emergent viral infection, has increased exponentially since the 1960s [1]. In spite of the alarming escalation of cases reported, the WHO still believes the disease is significantly underreported [2]. The effects of climate change are expected to dramatically increase the global incidence and geographic locations of dengue. According to the WHO, the number of countries reporting dengue cases has increased from nine countries before 1960 to more than 64 countries in 2007 [2]. Dengue cases continue to climb despite numerous interventions globally to halt the progression. Climate change allows the primary dengue vectors to thrive in more geographical locations; increased population, urbanization and deforestation have also provided favorable conditions for vectors. In areas with poor or nonexistent infrastructure, sanitation, and unreliable water supplies, water storage systems provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitos. These issues are compounded by intercontinental commerce, specifically the transport of tires, which harbor rainwater and mosquito larvae, allowing introduction of non-native mosquitos to other countries. No cure currently exists for dengue and vaccine development has been fraught with difficulties. Dengue should be categorized as one of the most imperative global health issues in need of effective solutions. Drastic changes need to occur in public health approaches and health management policies for dengue. Without serious and immediate attention to the escalation of dengue the global burden of disease will significantly intensify.

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Funding for Open Access provided by the UMD Libraries Open Access Publishing Fund.

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