Socio-Ecological Factors Associated with Dengue Risk and Aedes aegypti Presence in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Dengue fever has emerged as a significant health threat in the Galápagos Islands, with periodic outbreaks reported since 2002. A 2014 study identified key socio-ecological factors associated with dengue risk and the presence of its primary vector, Aedes aegypti, in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal Island). The research found that 24% of respondents in PB and 14% in PA reported prior dengue infections, with more Ae. aegypti presence in PB homes. Risk factors for dengue included human movement patterns, household demographics, water quality issues, and dengue awareness. Housing conditions, mosquito control practices, and risk perception were significant predictors of Ae. aegypti presence. This was the first comprehensive study of its kind in the Galápagos, providing critical insights for public health interventions.

Ryan, S. J., Lippi, C. A., Nightingale, R., Hamerlinck, G., Borbor-Cordova, M. J., Cruz B, M., Ortega, F., Leon, R., Waggoner, E., & Stewart-Ibarra, A. M. (2019). Socio-Ecological Factors Associated with Dengue Risk and Aedes aegypti Presence in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(5), 682. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050682