Is Climate Change Causing a Rise in Dengue?

Introduction 

Amidst Malaysia's lush green landscapes and tropical warmth, the fight against dengue fever has proven to be a persistent challenge. Despite Malaysia's unwavering efforts to control the spread of this disease, tackling the pesky mosquitoes that transmit dengue through their bites has proven to be an uphill task.^[1] ​

Public health expert Dr. Rohaida Ismail suggests a connection between the Earth's rising temperatures and the increased threat of vector-borne diseases.^[2]

In this article, we aim to examine the impact of climate change on the surge of dengue in Malaysia, recognizing the complexities and uncertainties surrounding this relationship.

Understanding Dengue Fever

As stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue, also commonly known as breakbone fever, is a viral infection that is transmitted to humans by the infected Aedes mosquito.^[3]

Its prevalence has significantly risen in recent decades in tropical countries. While most individuals experience no symptoms and recover quickly, some may develop severe dengue and require hospitalization.^[3][4]

Dr. Velayudhan, at a United Nations briefing in Geneva, explained that when an individual is infected with dengue for the second time, the infection can become much more severe and may potentially be fatal.^[5]

Climate Change and Dengue: Knowing the Impact

Malaysia is experiencing extreme weather events attributed to climate change, including floods and shifts in the monsoon season. Driven by rising temperatures, the Aedes mosquitoes, responsible for dengue transmission, mature more quickly, and their breeding grounds multiply due to prolonged weather patterns.^[2]

Some effects of climate change that may affect the spread of dengue include:^[6]

• Warmer Weather: Higher temperatures lead to increased reproduction and growth of the mosquito population, increasing the risk of mosquito bites.
• Humidity: High humidity helps mosquitoes live longer and lay more eggs.
• Rain and Flooding: Excessive rain and floods may create more breeding spots for mosquitoes.

The Rise of Dengue in Malaysia

Dengue cases often increase during the monsoon season from June to September as the rain offers mosquitoes more breeding sites.^[7]

According to a statement from The Star dated Thursday, 08 Feb 2024, Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, the Director-General of Health, reported a significant increase in suspected dengue cases. He mentioned that during the initial five weeks of 2024, there were 18,247 cases recorded, marking a 65.6% surge compared to the 11,127 cases reported during the same period last year.^[8]

A study by the Infectious Disease Modelling Journal discovered that the number of dengue infections in Selangor is expected to climb in the future.^[9]

Protecting You and Your Loved Ones

In Southeast Asia, dengue tends to affect individuals between 15 and 45 years old.^[1]

Due to the increased risk of dengue following climate change, individuals and societies may consider the following strategies:^[10]

• Ensure Universal Access to Care and Disease Management: Making healthcare and disease management accessible to all is vital.
• Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes: Measures like using window and door screens, wearing protective clothing, deploying insecticides, and avoiding habitats where disease vectors breed can minimize exposure.
• Vaccination: Leverage new technologies to protect individuals against viral diseases.
• Prioritize Wetland Management: Focus on managing wetlands and eliminating breeding sites for disease-carrying vectors near populated areas.

Conclusion

Climate change affects the entire world, and Malaysia is no exception. In recent years, dengue, a virus transmitted through mosquitoes, has re-emerged considerably, affecting a significant number of people each year. While climate factors, such as temperatures, rainfall, and humidity, have been linked to dengue viruses, the correlation between climate change and dengue transmission is still being studied.

By minimizing our carbon footprint, progressively phasing out petroleum, and selecting natural energy sources, we can participate actively in tackling this worldwide issue towards a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come. In the meantime, individuals may consult their doctor on dengue prevention methods to keep dengue at bay. (test)

References

1. Yeong, A. (2022). Climate change creates the perfect conditions for dengue to spread: Is fogging enough to beat that? Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from Malay Mail
2. Unair News. (2022). Malaysian Ministry of Health reveals climate change increases the risk of vector-borne disease. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from Unair News
3. World Health Organization. (2023). Dengue and severe dengue. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from WHO
4. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Dengue fever - Symptoms and causes. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from Mayo Clinic
5. UN News. (2023). Spike in dengue cases due to global warming, warns WHO. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from UN News
6. Marano, M. (2023, October 19). The Increasing Burden of Dengue Fever in a Changing Climate. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from The Rockefeller Foundation
7. Thomson Reuters Foundation. (2023). Global warming, longer monsoon rains making dengue deadlier in South Asia. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from Al Jazeera
8. Yunus, A. (2024, February 8). Dengue cases up by 65%. Retrieved on 23 February 2024, from The Star
9. Wang, Y., Zhao, S., Wei, Y., Li, K., Jiang, X., Li, C., Ren, C., Yin, S., Ho, J., Ran, J., Han, L., Zee, B. C. Y., & Chong, K. C. (2023, September). Impact of climate change on dengue fever epidemics in South and Southeast Asian settings: A modelling study. Infectious Disease Modelling, 8(3), 645–655. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.idm.2023.05.008
10. Wellcome. (2022). How climate change affects vector-borne diseases. Retrieved on 25 October 2023, from Wellcome

This article is brought to you by Takeda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. 200901025887 (868989-K)

Disclaimer: These images depict hypothetical patients and/or healthcare professionals. This information is available to the public for informational purposes only; it should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not intended to substitute consultation with a healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice.

C-ANPROM/MY/DENV/0396 March 2025