DENGUE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: Researchers have found a potential link between anomalies in sea-surface temperatures in Indian Ocean and the intensity of dengue epidemics globally, offering hope for improved prediction of dengue outbreaks.

Dengue

• About: It is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes.
• Found: Tropical and sub-tropical climates worldwide, mostly in urban and semi-urban areas.
• Symptoms: Usually begin 4–10 days after infection and last for 2–7 days. Symptoms may include: high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and rash.
• Severe Symptoms: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums or nose, fatigue and restlessness.
• Treatment: There is no specific treatment for dengue.

Indian Ocean basin-wide (IOBW) Index

• About: It represents the regional average of sea surface temperature anomalies in the tropical Indian Ocean.
• Association with: IOBW is closely associated with dengue epidemics in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.