A study was recently conducted by scientists in Delhi. As per the study, tap water access in densely populated parts of Delhi is a strong predictor of the risk of contracting dengue.
Key Points
- The study was published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.
- This study can result in new strategies for controlling transmission of the deadly virus in urban areas.
- The dengue virus is one of the most growing number of mosquito-borne pathogens across the world that have adapted to spread in cities. It was noted by the scientists from the National Institute of Malaria Research in Delhi.
- As per scientists, around 3.5 billion people around the world are at risk of dengue viral infection which is increasing with the growing rates of urbanization.
- In the study, the scientists analyzed environmental and social risk factors for contracting the virus in Delhi.
- The scientists measured dengue antibodies in 2,107 people and mosquito larval prevalence in 18 areas within the city as well as socio-economic factors across neighborhoods.
- As per the analysis of the scientists, 7.6% of the people surveyed were positive for dengue virus antibodies.
- The study also noticed that colonies with very poor access to tap water had a higher risk of exposure to the virus.
- The areas with poor access to water were only the areas that registered dengue cases between epidemics.
Improved access to tap water can reduce dengue cases. Also, mosquito control in socially disadvantaged areas can lead to fewer dengue cases.
