South Asia on the arboviral pandemic horizon: Understanding arbovirus transmission in the region and preparing for future pandemics

Abstract

Arboviral diseases are escalating across South Asia, with ecological and socioeconomic factors positioning the region as a potential global pandemic epicenter. Traditional pathogens such as dengue, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis persist alongside emerging threats such as Zika, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), Tamdy, and Karshi viruses, are all expanding geographically. Climate change accelerates vector range shifts, while rapid urbanization, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, cross-border mobility, and fragmented surveillance amplify transmission risks. High population density, limited vector control, and low vaccination coverage create ideal conditions for viral spread and recombination. Recent outbreaks reveal alarming trends, including expanded vector habitats, increased disease severity, and record-breaking epidemic rates. Without coordinated regional strategies integrating enhanced surveillance, vector management, and healthcare capacity building, South Asia’s arboviral burden could catalyze global health crises. This synthesis underscores the urgent need for multidisciplinary interventions to address the complex drivers of arboviral proliferation in this vulnerable region.

Keywords

Arthropod-borne viruses / Arboviruses / Epidemic / Pandemic / South Asia

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