TEHRAN –A total of 193 cases of dengue fever have been diagnosed in the country, the deputy health minister has said.

“Dengue fever outbreak has been only reported in Chabahar,” IRIB news quoted Babak Eshrati as saying.

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

“Out of 193 diagnosed cases, 130 have been infected outside the country. Since the beginning of the current year (March 20) only one death as a result of the disease has been reported so far,” the official added.

Dengue virus is transmitted through the bite of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes also transmit Zika and Chikungunya virus.

Dengue disease has different infectious phases, including the fever phase, critical phase, and recovery phase.

Thanks to effective border control measures and quality healthcare, the number of people entering the country having dengue fever has significantly decreased compared to the previous months.

However, a decrease in temperature accompanied by the rains in autumn can contribute to the resurgence of the mosquito density, particularly in the affected areas.

The health ministry has implemented measures to address the probable increase in infected cases in autumn.

Regional cooperation

The 30th Technical Meeting of G5 Forum member states (Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Tajikistan) plus the World Health Organization held in Tehran on Tuesday discussed the latest scientific findings concerning the outbreak of dengue fever and monkeypox.

The main objectives of the meeting were to share experiences and knowledge on the most effective ways to prevent and control the spread of dengue fever and mpox, as well as existing challenges, the health ministry’s website reported.

Officials also explored the role of bordering countries in preventing the transmission of the diseases.

The event provided a great opportunity to strengthen international cooperation in public health and raise awareness about communicable diseases. It is expected to boost treatment strategies as well as preventive measures in member states.

MT/MG