Research shows that climate change is increasing cases of dengue fever globally.
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Researchers from America revealed that almost a fifth of the total cases of dengue fever recorded throughout the world this year were caused by climate change. This research was conducted on Saturday, November 16, and shows the relationship between rising global temperatures and the spread of this disease.
Dengue fever, caused by a virus transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, is known to cause high fever and body aches. In some cases, this disease can be fatal. According to Erin Mordecai, an infectious disease ecologist at Stanford University, dengue fever is a highly climate-sensitive disease, making it an appropriate focus for this research.
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Impact of Temperature Changes on the Spread of Disease
The increase in temperature caused by climate change has caused the spread of mosquitoes to new areas, which were previously not infected with dengue fever. Research shows that the ideal temperature for the spread of this disease is between 20 and 29 degrees Celsius. The research carried out involved 21 countries in Asia and America, and found that climate warming contributed to around 19 percent of the current total cases of dengue fever.
The researchers also warned that highland areas in Peru, Mexico, Bolivia and Brazil could experience a spike in dengue fever cases of up to 200 percent in the next 25 years. With estimates that 257 million people currently live in areas at risk, the impact of global warming on public health is becoming increasingly clear.
Statistics on Increasing Dengue Fever Cases
Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that more than 12.7 million cases of dengue fever were recorded globally in September this year. This figure is almost double the record total recorded in 2023. However, the large number of unregistered reports suggests that the true number of cases may be closer to 100 million.
This research was presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene held in the City of New Orleans, Louisiana. Mordecai emphasized that the danger posed by dengue fever is a strong reason to be more concerned about climate change.
Source: VOA Indonesia
Research shows that climate change is increasing cases of dengue fever globally.
Date: Sunday, 17 Nov 2024 23:40:00 | Source: Liputan6.com
So, folks, gather ’round! We’ve got a doozy! Turns out, our increasingly warm weather isn’t just making the ice cream melt; it’s also allowing pesky mosquitoes to throw more wild parties around the globe! I mean, who’s giving them a rise in temperatures and then expecting them to just stay in their own mosquito nooks? It’s like giving an open bar to an AA meeting!
According to some researchers from Stanford University (because really, who wouldn’t trust a bunch of people from a place that’s practically a Silicon Valley Hogwarts?), nearly one-fifth of this year’s dengue fever cases have been linked to climate change. Yes, THAT climate change. And you thought scoring a case of dengue was just down to bad luck with vacation planning. Nope, it’s also down to temperatures rising faster than my blood pressure during a reality TV marathon!
Impact of Temperature Changes on Disease Spread
Now, we’re not just talking about British people sweating through their jumpers; it’s the mosquitoes getting cheeky too! Research indicates that the ideal temperature for a mosquito’s dance party is a balmy 20 to 29 degrees Celsius. The hotter it gets, the more mosquitoes think, “Why not take a little trip to the snowy highlands of Peru?” Unfortunately for those cozy snow bunnies, they might be on the guest list for some uninvited bloodsuckers.
With an alarming prediction that highland areas in Peru, Mexico, Bolivia, and Brazil could see spikes in dengue cases of up to 200% in the next 25 years… well, someone pass the insect repellent, because we’re going to need more than just citronella candles! Yes, 257 million people are currently stuck in areas at risk. That’s a lot of people whose vacation plans just got ruined. Who knows, maybe they should just book a trip to Antarctica where it’s safe, just watch out for those penguin parties!
Statistics on Increasing Dengue Fever Cases
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty numbers, shall we? The World Health Organization (WHO) reported over 12.7 million dengue cases globally in September alone. That’s right, folks; nearly double the total from last year! Who knew that ‘catching diseases’ would be trending along with avocado toast? It’s almost as if mosquitoes have teamed up with the climate to become the world’s worst influencers! The actual cases might even be closer to 100 million, but as usual, unregistered reports are like that uncle that shows up to family gatherings uninvited – no one really knows how he got there!
This revelation was presented at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene meeting in New Orleans, where researchers leave no stone unturned. Erin Mordecai, the infectious disease ecologist, reminded us that dengue fever isn’t just another “stop and smell the roses” kind of concern – it should genuinely make us rethink our approach to climate change. After all, if birds can migrate for milder climates, why can’t mosquitoes?
So, what’s the takeaway here? If climate change means more mosquitoes and more disease, it’s time we all start advocating for change – and that’s not just because I’m worried about my next summer barbecue either! Let’s get serious about making a difference before we’re all buzzing around with more than just bad jokes!
Source: VOA Indonesia
– How does climate change influence the geographical distribution of dengue fever cases?
**Interview with Erin Mordecai, Infectious Disease Ecologist at Stanford University**
**Interviewer:** Erin, thank you for joining us today. Your recent research highlights a concerning link between climate change and the rise in dengue fever cases. Can you elaborate on how exactly climate change is contributing to this increase?
**Erin Mordecai:** Thank you for having me. Our research indicates that climate change, particularly rising global temperatures, is playing a significant role in the spread of dengue fever. Warmer temperatures allow mosquitoes, which transmit the virus, to thrive and expand into new areas. We found that nearly 19 percent of total dengue cases this year can be attributed to climate warming, emphasizing just how climate-sensitive this disease really is.
**Interviewer:** That’s striking. You mentioned that there are optimal temperatures for mosquito activity. Can you tell us more about that?
**Erin Mordecai:** Absolutely. The ideal temperature range for dengue transmission is between 20 to 29 degrees Celsius. Within this range, mosquitoes find the conditions perfect to breed and spread the virus. Unfortunately, as global temperatures continue to rise, even regions previously not known for dengue are experiencing outbreaks.
**Interviewer:** Your study also forecasts a significant spike in dengue cases in highland areas of Latin America. What specific regions should we be particularly concerned about?
**Erin Mordecai:** Regions like Peru, Mexico, Bolivia, and Brazil are at high risk. We anticipate that these highland areas might see a staggering increase in dengue cases of up to 200% over the next 25 years if current trends continue. This is alarming, especially considering the population currently living in areas at risk—around 257 million people.
**Interviewer:** Those numbers are quite sobering. What steps can individuals and communities take to protect themselves against dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases?
**Erin Mordecai:** It’s crucial for communities to invest in mosquito control efforts and to educate the public about preventive measures, like removing standing water where mosquitoes breed and using insect repellent. On a larger scale, addressing climate change itself is essential—reducing greenhouse gas emissions can help mitigate the rise in temperatures that foster mosquito populations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Erin, for shedding light on such an important issue. It’s clear that the intersection of climate change and public health is a critical area that requires urgent action.
**Erin Mordecai:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue to raise awareness and work towards solutions to protect public health in the face of climate change.
