Studies on the association between dengue fever cases and climatic factors in Bhopal, India.

Abstract

This study explores the association between climatic factors and the incidence of dengue fever in Bhopal, India, from 2021 to 2023. Given the rise in dengue fever cases linked to climate-sensitive Aedes mosquitoes, understanding these relationships is vital for public health strategies. An approach was employed, incorporating meteorological data (temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall) and dengue case reports, alongside Aedes mosquito larval collections. The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between Aedes larval abundance and relative humidity as well as a strong association between dengue fever cases and Aedes density and rainfall. The peak incidence of dengue cases was observed during the post-monsoon months of September to November, characterized by elevated temperatures and high humidity levels. These findings highlight the critical influence of climatic factors on the dynamics of Aedes mosquito populations and dengue transmission, underscoring the need for effective urban planning and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of climate variability on dengue outbreaks in Bhopal.