Vector-borne infectious diseases in pregnancy in the era of climate change: A focus on mosquito- and tick-borne pathogens (Review)

Abstract

The escalating challenges posed by climate change have profound implications for public health, particularly concerning the interplay between pregnancy and vector-borne infections. This review explores the multifaceted interactions between climate change, vector ecology, and pregnancy, with a focus on pathogens such as malaria, Zika virus, and dengue fever. For pregnant women, these vector-borne infections carry significant risks, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital anomalies, necessitating urgent and effective public health responses. Highlighting the heightened vulnerability of pregnant women to these diseases, the review outlines the significant risks, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital anomalies. It advocates actionable public health responses, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced surveillance systems to monitor vector populations and disease incidence, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions. By integrating preventive measures and timely medical interventions into maternal healthcare systems, the study provides a pathway to mitigating adverse outcomes. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to bridge gaps between climate adaptation, vector control, and healthcare strategies. These insights not only enhance our understanding of a critical health challenge but also serve as a foundation for advancing medical research and healthcare practices, thereby promoting resilience in vulnerable populations.

Keywords: climate change; disease surveillance; pregnancy; public health; vector-borne infections.

Figure 1

Global distribution of vector-borne diseases in the context of climate change. This map illustrates the global prevalence of vector-borne diseases in the context of climate change. Blue regions denote areas with low prevalence or cold climates unfavorable for vector habitats. Orange indicates moderate prevalence, highlighting regions where changing climate conditions (such as rising temperatures and rainfall) are becoming more favorable for vectors. Red regions show high prevalence, including endemic zones for diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Zika. White regions represent areas with minimal or no data or regions unsuitable for vector habitats due to extreme climates (such as deserts or very cold regions). The gradient from blue to red visually represents increasing disease prevalence or risk, influenced by climate factors such as warming temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, or expanding habitats for vectors such as mosquitoes.

Figure 2

Interactions between climate change, vector ecology, and pregnancy. Climate changes, such as rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, affect vector behavior, leading to increased disease transmission. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable due to physiological and socio-environmental factors, resulting in adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and congenital anomalies.

Figure 3

Comprehensive public health strategies to mitigate vector-borne diseases during pregnancy. This figure outlines an integrated approach to addressing vector-borne diseases in pregnant women. Immediate interventions, such as insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and environmental management, are depicted as primary preventive measures. Educational campaigns and provider training highlight the role of awareness and preparedness. Policies emphasizing funding, vaccine development, and antenatal care are shown to support long-term resilience. The central image underscores the vulnerability of pregnant women and their unborn children to vector-borne diseases, emphasizing the need for coordinated action.