Climate change and El Niño drive rise in dengue fever risks

Climate phenomena and global warming are influencing the spread of dengue fever. The El Niño phenomenon, characterized by rising temperatures and intense rainfall in certain regions, creates favorable conditions for the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Higher temperatures can accelerate the mosquito's life cycle and increase its activity levels.

In Brazil, specifically in Paranavaí, health surveillance reported 731 suspected cases of dengue between January and the first week of October, with 289 confirmed. Health officials emphasize that residents must take proactive measures to eliminate standing water in containers, gutters, and flowerpots to prevent breeding.

On a broader scale, dengue remains a significant tropical disease with substantial economic and social impacts. While the disease has been documented since the late 18th century, climate change is currently driving its expansion. In Portugal, rising case numbers are increasing the risks of local transmission via the tiger mosquito.