A new publication by a team of Stanford researchers and their Kenyan colleagues sheds light on the factors that contribute to the transmission of dengue and chikungunya viruses among Kenyan children.

Little is known about how these severe illnesses spread and impact local communities in Kenya, despite the fact that climate change is driving a global increase in these infections. Rising temperatures, unexpected rainfall patterns, and increased humidity create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, increasing the threat of vector-borne diseases.

The study followed a cohort of 3,521 children under 18 years of age in Western and Coastal Kenya between 2014-18, testing them for evidence of exposure to dengue and chikungunya viruses. Researchers studied children because they are particularly susceptible to these mosquito-borne illnesses —  and because it is easier to study the infection patterns among younger populations.

The data showed a 5.3-10% prevalence of dengue and chikungunya infection in children over five years old. Additionally, 3-5% of the cohort experienced active infections during the four years of the study. The researchers found evidence that trash and open water containers near people’s homes and living areas were significant risk factors for exposure to these viruses. Individuals from wealthier households were found to have decreased risk of exposure to these viruses. These findings can empower communities to reduce their risk of exposure by implementing control measures such as eliminating standing water and removing trash from around their households.

Image: An aedes aegyptii mosquito, which spreads dengue and chikungunya viruses.