01 Tem 2025 Salı
Effect of climatic factors on the seasonal and non-seasonal prevalence of dengue vectors in northern districts of West Bengal, India
Abstract : Dengue, a mosquito-borne disease, has become a significant public health concern in India, with an alarming increase in reported cases. Dengue control programms mainly depends on reduction of vector populations. Information regarding vector bionomics and population dynamics is essential for formulation of effective control strategies. So, the present work was undertaken to study the effect of environmental factors on population dynamics of dengue vectors in northern districts of West Bengal. Monthly entomological survey was carried out in study areas to examine available containers for the presence of immature Aedes sp. Survey data were used for calculation of breeding preference ratio, House Index(HI), Container Index(CI) and Breteau Index(BI) and its associations with environmental factors were also analyzed. During study, 3803 houses and 14527 water-holding containers were inspected. Highest house and container positivity were recorded during monsoon, with peak between July and September. Entomological indices such as HI, CI and BI showed significant seasonal variation, correlating positively with rainfall and temperature. The study findings may serve as a basis for developing predictive models and focused interventions. Future research should further investigate the interactions between Aedes vectors and environmental factors to enhance the effectiveness of dengue prevention and control strategies.