Risk assessment of dengue fever in Qatar

Background: Dengue Fever constitutes a major international public health concern due to rapid expansion of geographic distribution of the virus and the mosquito vector of the disease. In this paper we aim to review the risk of Dengue Fever introduction to Qatar. Methods: Review of the Literature for the factors responsible for the worldwide spread of dengue fever and assess these factors in Qatar. Results: Internationally, the Global Climate Change is believed to be responsible of Dengue geographical expansion. High Temperature and humidity in Qatar are suitable climatic conditions for breeding of Dengue vectors Aedes aegypti and albopticus. The rapid urbanization in Qatar constitutes a favorable environment for breeding sites of Dengue vectors, as the mosquito prefers to breed in artificial containers such as discarded tires, drums, cans, buckets, flower pots, and vases. High number of international travelers, especially form dengue endemic countries to Qatar is a very important risk factor. The rapid human population growth in Qatar if combined with circulation of different dengue virus serotypes is an important risk factor for development of sever forms of Dengue Fever. Unspecific clinical presentation in addition to presence of asymptomatic dengue cases poses a challenge to the diagnosis capability of medical doctors in Qatar and hence to under reporting of dengue. Conclusion: Dengue Fever is an imminent risk to Qatar. Entomological survey is needed to determine the presence, capacity and density of Dengue Vector in Qatar. Strengthen Dengue surveillance in international travelers will work as sentinel for dengue risk in Qatar.