The Rising Threat of Climate-Fueled Dengue Dr. Clare Strode and her team at a lab in Lancashire are studying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, notorious carriers of dengue, to understand the link between climate change and the increasing spread of this disease. With global warming creating ideal conditions for these mosquitoes, the risk of dengue outbreaks is intensifying.
COP28’s Focus on Health and Climate Change The connection between global health and climate change takes center stage at COP28 in Dubai, with Sunday marked as the first official “health day” in the history of climate talks. The event underscores the urgency of addressing health issues like dengue, which is expanding its geographical reach due to changing climate conditions.
The Spread of Dengue in New Climates Evidence shows that dengue-carrying mosquitoes are adapting to new climates and environments. The Asian tiger mosquito, another dengue carrier, has been found as far north as Kent in the UK, highlighting the mosquitoes’ adaptability to warmer and wetter conditions.
Scientific Response to Dengue Outbreaks Scientists are fighting back by merging insect surveillance with climate forecasts to predict potential outbreaks. Projects funded by organizations like the Wellcome Trust are developing prediction tools in 12 countries, combining satellite imagery, weather data, and field research to anticipate and prepare for dengue spread.
Implementing Early Warning Systems The research aims to deliver early warning systems for dengue outbreaks, helping communities to take preventative actions. These measures could include public health campaigns, increased healthcare provider awareness, and community efforts to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
Adapting to Climate Change Impacts In areas where diseases like malaria and dengue are prevalent, climate change is extending high-risk seasons. Clare Strode warns that without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the UK and other regions could become more hospitable to dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
The Global Increase in Dengue Cases The World Health Organization reports a dramatic increase in dengue cases over the last two decades. With extreme weather events like wet monsoons contributing to outbreaks, the pressure on healthcare systems is growing, particularly in countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
Early Warning Systems in Action Dr. Dung Phung from the University of Queensland is involved in developing an early warning system called E-Dengue, which aims to predict outbreaks months in advance. This tool could enable communities to take proactive measures, alleviating the burden on healthcare systems.