Climate change is contributing to a significant increase in dengue fever cases, with nearly 12 million recorded in the Americas this year, close to triple last year’s total. Research presented at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene quantifies the role that rising temperatures play in the spread of dengue, attributing nearly a fifth of the existing burden to climate change. By 2050, climate change could lead to a 60% increase in dengue cases, with some areas seeing spikes of up to 200%. Public health experts warn that global warming is enabling mosquito-borne diseases to spread to new places by expanding the geographical range where mosquitoes thrive. The research also highlights the connection between greenhouse gas emissions and health consequences, emphasizing the need to prepare for large epidemics in the future.
In the United States and its territories, more than 7,200 dengue cases have been reported this year, with Puerto Rico experiencing a significant rise in infections. The maker of the only FDA-approved dengue vaccine has discontinued it, and efforts to curb mosquito populations and prioritize vaccination are needed to address the increasing threat of dengue. The disease, most common in humid, tropical climates, can range from asymptomatic to severe, with symptoms including fever, headache, joint pain, and potentially life-threatening complications like bleeding and low blood pressure. Experts emphasize the importance of mitigating climate change effects on dengue and preparing for a rise in cases globally.
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