The Effects of Climate Change on Vector-Borne Illnesses in South and South-East Asian Regions: A Narrative Review

Climate change is dramatically influencing the transmission dynamics, geographic distribution and seasonality of Vector-Borne Diseases (VBDs) and seriously threatening public health. This chapter examines the interrelationship between climate factors and VBDs like malaria, dengue, Lyme disease and chikungunya, which receive socially disproportionate distribution in tropical-subtropical regions. The main aim of the study is to determine the mechanism through which climate change affects the ecology of vectors and the spread of diseases, while the secondary objective is to integrate health system strategies for climate-sensitive VBDs. The review methodology application requires an extensive synthesis of recent research works, epidemiological case studies and climate impact models. Findings demonstrate that an increase in temperature, with changing rainfall and humidity patterns, expedites increased breeding of vectors, shortens pathogen incubation periods and enables vectors to colonise new habitats, hence leading to increased disease burdens. Socioeconomic inequities and poor healthcare infrastructure keep the vulnerable at greater risk. This chapter posits that measures to incorporate climate adaptation strategies into public health planning alongside initiatives to improve research and development for innovative vector control technologies, as well as trans-regional coordination, will be fundamental in dealing with emerging outbreaks. Within South Asia, interventions that are locally tailored and adapted are of critical importance to reduce vulnerabilities and foster the construction of climate-resilient health systems.