Abstract
Dengue fever (DF), caused by the dengue virus (DENV), is a major global health issue, exhibiting a significant rise in incidence and mortality over recent decades. Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus have been identified as the primary vectors responsible for the transmission of the virus. The disease is spreading notably in regions adjacent to endemic areas. Iran, sharing borders with dengue-endemic countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan, faces an elevated risk of outbreaks. Since the first dengue case in Iran in 2008, there have been multiple instances of imported cases, emphasizing the role of international travel in the dissemination of the virus. Recent seroprevalence studies and the identification of DENV in Iranian provinces without travel history suggest the establishment of indigenous transmission.
The presence of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in southern Iran has been confirmed by morphological and molecular analyses, with documented cases of these vectors isolated within the country. This co-occurrence of vectors and autochthonous dengue cases indicates a high risk of sustained transmission. The clinical spectrum of dengue fever ranges from mild febrile illness to severe dengue hemorrhagic fever, necessitating accurate diagnostic methods such as ELISA, virus isolation, and RT-PCR. These tests are crucial for proper identification due to the persistence of DENV antibodies post-infection.
To control dengue disease, Iran has proposed a strategic framework focusing on research, capacity building, inter-organizational collaboration, community mobilization, and enhanced disease management. The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for consistent resource allocation towards dengue surveillance. Additionally, the potential role of domestic dogs as reservoirs in the transmission cycle of dengue has been observed, necessitating further research to understand their impact.
In conclusion, Iran must adopt comprehensive and collaborative strategies to prevent dengue outbreaks, considering its proximity to endemic regions and the presence of competent mosquito vectors within its borders. Enhanced diagnostic capabilities, public health initiatives, and robust vector control measures are essential to effectively mitigate the dengue threat.