Kermanshah – ISNA:
The
Deputy for Health at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences announced that
there have been no cases of infected Aedes mosquitoes or dengue fever detected
in the province so far. Nevertheless, preventive measures to combat Aedes
mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, are actively
underway.
Dr. Fariborz Imani, in an interview with ISNA, stated that
concerns about the spread of Aedes mosquitoes usually rise with the onset of
autumn rains, but this concern mainly pertains to the southern provinces of
Iran. “There is currently no serious concern regarding this issue in
Kermanshah,” he added.
He emphasized that no Aedes mosquitoes or eggs have been
captured in the province, noting that controlling this mosquito is vital
because it can transmit four viral diseases: yellow fever, Zika virus,
chikungunya, and dengue fever—the latter being of particular importance to our
region.
Dr. Imani identified stagnant water as the main breeding
environment for Aedes mosquitoes and pointed out that even a spoonful of water
is enough for their growth and egg-laying.
He added that standing water under air conditioners and
flowerpots, as well as wastewater and polluted puddles, are key breeding sites.
“Aedes mosquitoes prefer dark-colored surfaces for laying eggs, making old
tires ideal breeding grounds. They can also grow in discarded cans and
containers that hold water among waste materials,” he explained.
Monitoring
of Travelers from High-Risk Areas
The health deputy reported that no positive cases of dengue
fever have been detected in Kermanshah. Traps have been placed at the
province’s border checkpoints to capture Aedes mosquitoes and eggs, which are
examined every 48 hours. In addition, all travelers arriving from high-risk
areas—such as through airports and railway stations—are monitored.
Dr. Imani noted that although Aedes mosquito and dengue
fever outbreaks are more common in southern Iran, cases observed in other
provinces have typically been among individuals who had traveled to high-risk
regions and brought the infection back with them.
He added that healthcare professionals have been trained to
identify suspected cases, especially among people with a recent travel history
to endemic areas, and to take prompt diagnostic and preventive measures.
“Rapid testing is performed for all suspected cases, and
samples requiring further analysis are referred for advanced diagnostic testing,”
he said.
Symptoms
of Dengue Fever
Dr. Imani explained that dengue fever is not transmitted
directly from person to person; it spreads only through the Aedes mosquito. “If
a mosquito bites an infected person, both the mosquito and all its future
offspring become carriers,” he said.
He described the onset of dengue fever—also known as
“breakbone fever”—as similar to respiratory illnesses such as influenza. Early
symptoms are usually mild but intensify over time and may include fever,
headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, skin rash,
restlessness, fatigue, and a weak pulse. In severe cases, internal bleeding may
occur, and patients may notice blood in their vomit, urine, or stool.
Dr. Imani emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis and
treatment, noting that with proper medical care, symptoms can be effectively
managed in most cases.
Preventive
Measures
Regarding prevention, Dr. Imani highlighted environmental
sanitation and the elimination of stagnant water as the most effective
strategies to combat Aedes mosquitoes.
He advised that Aedes mosquitoes are most active in
the early morning and late evening, and people should take extra precautions
during these times—such as wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and
applying insect repellent on exposed skin.
He warned that drivers traveling to southern regions and
those spending nights outdoors are at higher risk, recommending the use of
mosquito nets while sleeping.
Finally, Dr. Imani stressed the importance of keeping
windows closed and using fine-mesh screens in good condition to prevent
mosquito entry.