ABSTRACT
Background:
The influence of climate on the epidemiology of dengue has scarcely been studied in Cartagena.
Methods:
The relationship between dengue cases and climatic and macroclimatic factors was explored using an ecological design and bivariate and time-series analyses during lag and non-lag months. Data from 2008-2017 was obtained from the national surveillance system and meteorological stations.
Results:
Cases correlated only with climatic variables during lag and non-lag months. Decreases in precipitation and humidity and increases in temperature were correlated with an increase in cases.
Conclusions:
Our findings provide useful information for establishing and strengthening dengue prevention and control strategies.
Keywords:
Dengue; Mosquito-borne disease; Climatic factors; Macroclimatic phenomena; Colombian Caribbean region