[Dengue and its vectors in Brazil]

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Virology
• Medical Entomology

Context:

• Dengue virus (DEN) has a significant history in Brazil, with documented outbreaks dating back to the 19th century.
• The first isolation of DEN-1 and DEN-4 viruses occurred in 1982 in Boa Vista, Roraima.
• Subsequent epidemics involving DEN-1 and DEN-2 have affected various regions, including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Northeastern states.

Purpose:

• To provide a historical overview of dengue virus circulation and outbreaks in Brazil.
• To document the isolation of specific dengue virus serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-4) and their geographical spread.
• To identify the primary urban vector and discuss potential transmission dynamics.

Summary:

• Dengue virus serotypes DEN-1, DEN-2, and DEN-4 have been isolated in Brazil since 1982, with major epidemics recorded across the country.
• Epidemics of DEN-1 occurred in 1986-1987 and 1990-1991, while DEN-2 outbreaks were noted in 1990-1991 and 1994.
• The urban mosquito Aedes aegypti is the confirmed vector, with numerous strains of DEN-4, DEN-1, and DEN-2 isolated from this species.

Impact:

• The sequential infections by DEN-1 and DEN-2 in Rio de Janeiro and Ceará are strongly associated with increased cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome (DHF/DSS).
• This historical data highlights the evolving epidemiology of dengue in Brazil and the challenges posed by multiple serotype introductions.
• Understanding the vector dynamics and serotype circulation is crucial for public health interventions and disease control strategies in Brazil.