Document Type : Letter to Editor
Authors
1 Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
Abstract
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms and can develops into a potentially life-threatening condition. It is transmitted primarily by invasive Aedes mosquitoes namely Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, poses a significant threat to public health, especially in tropical and subtropical climate conditions.
Dengue fever transmission is influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions as a breeding place for growing mosquitoes, human behavior, and public health measures. One of human behaviors is mass gatherings. Mass gatherings that bring large numbers of people into physical proximity; such as festivals, religious events, and public celebrations, often create ideal conditions for the transmission of this virus. The convergence of large numbers of people can inadvertently facilitate the spread of the disease by increasing the likelihood of mosquito bites in densely populated areas. Moreover, during such events, human movements continues to introduce the virus to new geographic areas, potentially leading to localized outbreaks. The presence of stagnant water in event venues, where mosquitoes breed, further exacerbates the risk of transmission. So, it seems there is the correlation between mass gatherings and dengue fever outbreaks. Understanding this relationship is vital for developing effective measures to prevent the spread of dengue and safeguard public health. It is crucial for public health authorities to recognize the implications of mass gatherings on dengue transmission. Implementing preventive measures, such as community awareness campaigns, mosquito control strategies, and encouraging attendees to take personal protective actions, can significantly mitigate the risks associated with these events.
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