Caribbean Vector-Borne Diseases: A Shift Towards Proactive Preparedness

The Caribbean region faces a persistent and evolving threat from vector-borne diseases (VBDs) like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Driven by factors including climate change, human migration, and ecological shifts, these diseases are intensifying transmission risks. A growing consensus among public health experts emphasizes the demand to move beyond reactive outbreak responses and embrace a proactive, sustained approach to preparedness – particularly during the inter-epidemic periods between recognized outbreaks.

The Growing Burden of Vector-Borne Diseases

The Caribbean’s tropical environment, coupled with increasing human and animal movement and the impacts of climate change, creates ideal conditions for the spread of disease-carrying vectors, primarily mosquitoes. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) highlights the significant health security challenges posed by VBDs in the region. While historically focused on diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, attention is also turning to emerging viruses and the role of understudied vectors.

Redefining the Inter-Epidemic Period

Traditionally, preparedness efforts have largely been reactive, intensifying during outbreaks and diminishing in the periods between them. However, experts now advocate for redefining the inter-epidemic period – the time between outbreaks when risk factors persist – as the core of vector-borne disease preparedness and resilience. This shift recognizes that sustained vigilance and investment during these periods are crucial for preventing future epidemics.

Three Strategic Pillars for Enhanced Preparedness

Based on discussions at the 2025 Caribbean Vector-Borne Diseases Network (CariVecNet) annual meeting, three strategic pillars are essential for strengthening preparedness:

Integrated Surveillance

Robust surveillance systems are fundamental. This includes not only traditional epidemiological surveillance but also integrated vector management and innovative approaches like entomovirological surveillance (studying viruses within vectors) and wastewater surveillance. Effective surveillance allows for early detection of outbreaks and a better understanding of transmission dynamics.

Strong Coalitions and Community Engagement

Building strong partnerships with sustained community engagement and shared ownership of prevention and response efforts is critical. Collaboration among stakeholders – including public health agencies, researchers, community leaders, and the public – is essential for effective implementation of control measures.

Harmonized Research and Public Policy

A regional research agenda, aligned with public policies, is needed to address knowledge gaps and inform evidence-based interventions. Research should focus on understanding vector biology, disease transmission, and the effectiveness of control strategies. PAHO emphasizes the intensifying transmission risks due to ecological change and structural vulnerabilities.

The Role of CariVecNet

CariVecNet serves as a regional innovation platform, fostering a transdisciplinary, multilingual, and equity-focused approach to vector-borne disease control. The network is developing and testing tools, protocols, and implementation resources that can be adapted to the specific contexts of Caribbean nations.

Climate Change and Vector Expansion

Environmental changes, including global warming, urbanization, and deforestation, are contributing to the expansion of habitats for disease-carrying vectors. Research indicates that these factors are driving the rapid spread of vector-borne diseases worldwide, with small island territories in the Caribbean being particularly vulnerable.

Impact of Climate Change on Health in the U.S. Caribbean

In the U.S. Caribbean, warmer temperatures are expanding mosquito populations and increasing their capacity to transmit diseases. The CDC reports that the annual number of days with temperatures above 90°F has increased over the last four decades, contributing to heat-related illnesses and exacerbating existing health conditions. Dust storms from the Sahara can impact air quality and increase respiratory risks.

Looking Ahead

Transitioning from episodic crisis response to sustained governance during inter-epidemic periods is essential for protecting the health of Caribbean populations. By embracing integrated surveillance, fostering strong coalitions, and harmonizing research with public policy, the region can build greater resilience to the ongoing threat of vector-borne diseases.