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.