The Impact of Climate Change on Aedes aegypti Distribution and Dengue Fever Prevalence in Semi-Arid Regions

The Impact of Climate Change on Aedes aegypti Distribution and Dengue Fever Prevalence in Semi-Arid Regions: A Case Study of Tehran Province, Iran

This study explores the influence of climate change on the distribution, biology, and disease-transmitting potential of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Tehran Province, a semi-arid region of Iran. Over the past two decades, rising temperatures, reduced rainfall, and increasing hot days have created favorable breeding conditions for these vectors. The research uses climatic data analysis, field monitoring, and predictive species distribution modeling to assess mosquito proliferation and its connection to dengue fever outbreaks. Results indicate a significant increase in mosquito densities and dengue cases across urban, peri-urban, and natural areas. The findings underscore the critical role of climate change in vector expansion and highlight the urgent need for integrated public health interventions and climate-resilient urban planning.