As we observe the National Dengue Day, let us look at how dengue impacts Indians on a day to day life. As per a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases, in January 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced their new 5-year strategic plan, the Thirteenth General Programme of Work 2019-23 to ensure that one billion more people in the world enjoy the benefits of better health and well being. Among the 10 highest priority health issues presented, dengue was identified as one of the four main infections threatening global health. What Is Dengue?The WHO defines dengue as a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people and is common in tropical and subtropical climates. Most people who get dengue do not have symptoms. however, for those who do, the most common symptoms are high fever, body aches, nausea, and rash. While most get better in 1-2 weeks, some people develop severe dengue and need care in a hospital. In severe cases, dengue too could be fatal. Common Dengue Symptomshigh fever (40°C/104°F)severe headachepain behind the eyesmuscle and joint painsnauseavomitingswollen glandsrashDengue And Its Impact In IndiaAs per a recent study published in journal Nature, titled Dengue dynamics, predictions, and future increase under changing monsoon climate in India, "the global burden of dengue is escalating under the influence of climate change, with India contributing a third of the total". The study notes the non-linearity and regional heterogeneity inherent in the climate-dengue relationship and the lack of consistent data, which makes it difficult to make useful prediction for its prevention. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by female Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and to a lesser extent, Aedes albopictus, when they feed on human hosts. According to data from the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), dengue cases in India have quadrupled from 2015 to 20203, the study notes.ALSO READ: National Dengue Day 2025: Theme, Importance, Significance, and OriginClimate Relationship And DengueDengue fever is a climate-sensitive disease and is also influenced by changes in meteorological conditions. Dr Sathvik Jain, who is the Chief Medical Officer at SDM Multi Speciality Hospital, Ujire, notes that rising temperatures and erratic rainfall increase mosquito lifespan and biting frequency. It also expands breeding sites by filing containers and potholes, and accelerate viral replication within mosquitoes by shortening the extrinsic incubation period. "In urban areas, poor drainage and rapid construction intensify these effects, while in rural areas, inconsistent water access often leads to the use of open containers for storage, which become ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes," notes Jain. "Dengue seasons are becoming longer and less predictable as warmer climates enable mosquitoes to survive year-round and erratic rainfall leads to multiple breeding cycles. To adapt, public health strategies must shift to year-round surveillance, use of climate-based predictive models and maintain continuous awareness campaigns beyond peak seasons," he remarks. Is Geography Also A Factor In Dengue Cases?Dr Jain explains that urban and rural areas face unique challenges in dengue prevention. In urban settings, high population, poor waste management, inadequate drainage contribute to increased mosquito breeding and rapid disease transmission.Conversely, rural areas grapple with limited healthcare access, lower public awareness and use of uncovered water storage due to poor infrastructure. "Despite these differences, a common and effective solution lies in Integrated Vector Management (IVM), which combines environmental control, biological methods such as introducing larvivorous fish, safe chemical interventions, and sustained public awareness campaigns. Community-led efforts—centered on education and active participation are crucial in ensuring the long-term success of these strategies in both settings," he notes. The Challenges That Comes With Specific GeographyUrban areas face significant gaps in dengue management, There’s an overreliance on fogging, which has limited impact without proper larval control, and inadequate housing regulations that fail to prevent mosquito entry and breeding, the doctor explains. In rural areas, challenges include delayed diagnosis due to a lack of healthcare facilities and trained personnel, limited access to mosquito repellents and bed nets, and weak disease surveillance and reporting systems, all of which hinder timely response to outbreaks.What Can Be Done?Dr Jain explains 5-key steps which could be included to prevent Dengue:Eliminate stagnant water regularly (containers, plant trays, gutters).Report symptoms early and seek treatment to reduce severe cases.Use protective measures: mosquito nets, repellents, and clothing.Participate in local clean-up drives and awareness sessions.Promote climate-resilient behavior: e.g., managing rainwater properly.