Monash University Study Examines Climate Impacts on Malaria and Dengue
The research paper, published in Science Advances under the title How climate change affects mosquito-borne infectious disease: The different trajectories of malaria and dengue (DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aei0953), investigates why two mosquito-borne illnesses follow starkly different paths despite sharing similar climate sensitivities. Malaria is a serious, life-threatening disease caused by a parasite spread through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted through the bites of infected female Aedes mosquitoes.
While the influence of climate factors involves non-linear relationships, seasonal effects, and substantial local variability, warming temperatures and changing rainfall broadly impact both diseases in similar ways by expanding suitable habitats. Non-climate factors help explain these divergent trajectories.
Escalating global malaria cases demand stronger prevention efforts
Dr. Cumming emphasized that there is no room for complacency in global health efforts. Although malaria remains in a long-term historical decline, global incidence has risen 8.5 per cent over the past decade. Addressing this growing burden requires vector control, vaccine deployment, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming.
Novel preventive interventions for dengue are emerging to counter the spread of the virus. This biological method reduces the mosquitoes’ ability to transmit dengue and was developed by the World Mosquito Program, a not-for-profit group of companies owned by Monash University.
Did you know? While malaria is caused by a parasite transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, dengue is a viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes. Despite both vectors expanding due to climate change, increased urbanization has specifically favored Aedes mosquito populations and fueled a global surge in dengue cases over the past century.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mosquito-Borne Diseases
How does the bacterium Wolbachia help prevent dengue?
The introduction of the bacterium Wolbachia into Aedes mosquito populations reduces the mosquitoes’ ability to transmit dengue. This innovative vector control strategy was developed by the World Mosquito Program, a not-for-profit group of companies owned by Monash University.
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