The disappearance, and re-emergence of Aedes aegypti in Iran: historical and current status, rising dengue fever threat

Abstract

Aedes aegypti is the proven vector of dengue fever, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. In Iran, the first recorded sighting of Ae. aegypti dates back to 1920 and into the early 1950s. For 70 years, the species was not seen in the country. However, since 2018, reports have confirmed the presence of Ae. aegypti in various regions. It is now established in some areas of the southern provinces, including Hormozgan, Bushehr, and Sistan and Baluchistan. The appearance, disappearance, and subsequent re-emergence of Ae. aegypti in Iran, after a 70-year absence, are attributed to a combination of factors such as historical malaria control, infrastructure, globalization, urbanization, and climate change that is discussed in this study. This study underscores that the re-emergence of Ae. aegypti in Iran necessitates an urgent paradigm shift from reactive chemical-based control toward a proactive, integrated management framework. Ultimately, the long-term mitigation of dengue fever risk depends on the seamless integration of community-based environmental management with advanced biotechnological interventions.