PREDICTION AND PREVENTION OF DENGUE EPIDE MICS

Prediction and prevention of dengue epidemics are based on information s gathered about the mosquito vector species, the dengue types transmi tted the vertebrate hosts and their environment. Although Aedes aegypt i is the most important vector other Aedes may also propagate the deng ue viruses. The populations of vector mosquitoes are evaluated through several indices: Breteau and/or positive house index, number of indoo r resting Aedes females, etc.... The four dengue types can replicate i n vertebrate hosts beside humans and in other mosquito species than Ae . aegypti. The incidence of dengue on a population is largely variable according to the immunity status, the vector competence and the virus strains. Concomitant infections by two types of dengue virus or by an another pathogen (Alphavirus) have been observed. The environmental f actors influencing the dengue ecosystem are mostly climatic (temperatu re, rainfall, wind) but also anthropic (transportation means public bu ildings). Prevention of dengue epidemics must be based on public healt h education in schools, community participation, epidemiological surve illance linked with good vector control teams Nevertheless intensive r eseal ch on dengue and the actions undertaken for the last forty years , dengue remains the first cause of viral morbidity worldwide.