The study led by IITM scientists Sophia Yacob and Roxy Mathew Koll sheds light on the intricate links between climate and dengue in India.Scientists have developed a dengue early warning system that incorporates all potential climate-based dengue factors (predictors) and their combined interactions with dengue at a regional scale.“The model uses observed temperature, rainfall, and humidity patterns; the dengue model is able to predict potential dengue outbreaks by more than two months in advance, with reasonable skill,” said Koll.“Such dengue early warning systems can help authorities in a number of states which bear the burden of a high number of dengue cases and can take proactive measures to prevent and manage outbreaks,” he further adds.States like Kerala, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, which bear a significant dengue burden, can significantly benefit from an advanced early warning system like this to enhance preparedness and reduce the disease’s impact.The Maharashtra government recognises the study, which will pave the way for future policy-making in a warming world. “This collaboration highlights the importance of bringing together expertise from diverse fields to address complex climate-health challenges,” said Sujata Saunik, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Maharashtra.
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