Enhancing Entomological Surveillance to Combat Aedes-Borne Diseases in Southern Iran

Vector-borne diseases, particularly those transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, represent significant public health challenges globally. The rapid spread of these diseases in urban environments, driven by climate change and human activities, necessitates effective surveillance and control strategies. In Iran, the emergence of Aedes aegypti has raised concerns about potential outbreaks of the disease, particularly in southern regions such as Hormozgan Province.

A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using routinely collected entomological surveillance data from the national invasive Aedes surveillance program of Iran CDC. The study covered urban areas of Bandar Abbas County, southern Iran, from January 2022 to December 2025. Biweekly ovitrap surveillance and larval survey data were analyzed to describe temporal trends of egg, house, container, and Breteau indices. Surveillance outputs during full and reduced operational capacity phases were compared descriptively. Associations between indices and meteorological variables were assessed using Pearson or Spearman correlation analyses.

Entomological indices showed marked temporal and interannual variability between 2022 and 2025. Egg indices varied seasonally, with an obvious peak in April 2023. House, container, and Breteau indices generally declined during 2023, coinciding with intensified surveillance and control activities, but resurged in parts of 2024 following a substantial reduction in operational capacity. During the reduced-capacity phase, egg indices remained nonzero, whereas larval indices were predominantly zero, likely reflecting decreased surveillance coverage. No statistically significant correlations were observed between entomological indices and temperature, relative humidity, or rainfall.

The findings emphasize the need for continuous entomological surveillance and community engagement in managing Aedes-borne diseases. This study highlights the necessity for integrated vector management strategies that include community-based interventions and robust monitoring systems. Despite initially low entomological indices, effective surveillance and control measures are essential for preventing Aedes-borne disease outbreaks in southern Iran. The insights gained can guide public health policies and serve as a model for similar regions facing vector-borne disease threats.