Journal of chemical health risks
Environmental and Entomological Determinants of Dengue Transmission in Arid and Semi-Arid Rajasthan, India: Implications for Public Health Risk Management
By Mahendra Singh Chouhan.
Abstract
Background
Dengue transmission is increasingly recognized in environments that are traditionally considered less favourable for sustained Aedes mosquito proliferation. Rajasthan contains extensive arid and semi-arid landscapes where seasonal water availability, domestic water storage and climatic variability may create localized ecological conditions favourable for dengue transmission.
Objective
The present study examined dengue occurrence in selected arid and semi-arid districts of Rajasthan and evaluated environmental and entomological characteristics relevant to Aedes aegypti persistence in a semi-arid setting. Materials and Methods: Retrospective dengue surveillance data were compiled for six districts of Rajasthan during 2015–2019, comprising arid districts (Jaisalmer, Barmer and Bikaner) and semi-arid districts (Jodhpur, Sri Ganganagar and Hanumangarh). In addition, entomological observations were undertaken in domestic and peri-domestic settings in Jodhpur. Climatic observations and laboratory surveillance data from the broader research programme were considered to interpret seasonal transmission. Aedes breeding habitats were documented, with particular attention to water-storage containers, tanks and other artificial receptacles.