Title : Strengthening health system resilience against vector-borne diseases during pandemics and climate change: A systematic review
Abstract:
Background: The convergence of pandemics and climate change presents unprecedented challenges to global health systems, particularly in controlling vector-borne diseases (VBDs). As a medical entomologist, I examine how these intersecting crises affect vector ecology and disease transmission dynamics.
Vector Ecology Shifts: Climate change expands geographical ranges of key vectors (Aedes aegypti, Anopheles spp.), while pandemic restrictions disrupt surveillance and control programs
2. Integrated Surveillance Success: Countries combining entomological data with climate metrics and mobility patterns achieved 40-60% better outbreak prediction
3. Community-Based Solutions: Local vector monitoring networks maintained disease control when formal systems were overwhelmed during COVID-19 lockdowns
4. Adaptive Strategies:
Resilient systems employed decentralized response teams and digital tools for real-time vector surveillance
Novel Contributions:
- Documents climate-driven vector adaptation during health system stresses
- Proposes integrated entomological-climatological surveillance framework
- Demonstrates cost-effectiveness of community-led vector monitoring during crises
Conclusion: Building VBD resilience requires entomology-informed strategies that address both ecological changes and health system capacities. Future preparedness must incorporate vector behavior predictions, community engagement, and flexible response protocols to handle converging crises.
Keywords: Medical Entomology, Health System Resilience, Vector Ecology, Climate Adaptation, Pandemic Response
