Epidemiology of communicable diseases in Jazan region

Evaluating the public’s readiness to combat vector-borne disease threats in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional survey

“…[1] The Jazan region in Saudi Arabia has been recognized as a location where VBDs, such as malaria, leishmaniasis, dengue fever, and Rift Valley fever, are highly prevalent. [2] Malaria control activities in the south-western regions of Saudi Arabia began in 1972, and epidemics began in the mid-1990s, raising malaria case incidence. [3] Through intensive control efforts, the incidence of malaria in Jazan decreased substantially, reaching the lowest rate of 0.11 cases per 10,000 population in 2014.…”

“…[4] Recent studies indicate a marked increase in dengue fever cases in Jazan, suggesting the region has become endemic for the disease, with environmental factors and insecticide resistance among Aedes aegypti mosquitoes potentially contributing to the high infection rates. [2,[5][6][7] However, despite the progress made in malaria control, dengue fever has emerged as a significant public health challenge in Jazan in recent years, with the region experiencing a marked increase in dengue fever incidence, suggesting the need for further epidemiological investigations and vector control measures. [2] The impact of VBDs on public health in Jazan is multifaceted.…”

“…[2,[5][6][7] However, despite the progress made in malaria control, dengue fever has emerged as a significant public health challenge in Jazan in recent years, with the region experiencing a marked increase in dengue fever incidence, suggesting the need for further epidemiological investigations and vector control measures. [2] The impact of VBDs on public health in Jazan is multifaceted. These diseases not only cause significant morbidity and mortality but also place a substantial burden on the healthcare system.…”

“…[9] The climate and geography of Jazan, which includes high temperatures, humidity, and the presence of water bodies, provide ideal conditions for the reproduction of VBDs. [2] In spite of the ongoing efforts made by the local health authorities to VBDs, the region is still encountering outbreaks, underscoring the necessity for efficient prevention and control strategies. [10] The control and prevention of VBDs are heavily influenced by the public's knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices.…”

“…This study focused on Jazan because of its high prevalence of VBDs like malaria, dengue, leishmaniasis, and Rift Valley fever. [2] Jazan is vulnerable to VBDs due to its unique geographical, climatic, and socioeconomic characteristics, including high temperatures, humidity, water bodies, and proximity to Yemen. [2] Despite local health authorities' efforts, the region has struggled to control VBDs, emphasizing the need to understand the population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP).…”