# Arbovirus Prevalence and Vulnerability Assessment Through Entomological Surveillance in Ponce, Puerto Rico

## TL;DR

This study in Ponce, Puerto Rico, found high rates of arbovirus antibodies in people and mosquitoes, highlighting the need for public health interventions.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into arbovirus prevalence and risk factors in a subtropical region, emphasizing the role of environmental and socioeconomic factors.

## Key findings

- Over a third of the population has long-term antibodies against chikungunya and Mayaro virus.
- More than two-thirds of the population have long-term antibodies against dengue and Zika virus.
- Dengue virus 1 was detected only in urban mosquitoes, and water storage practices and proximity to rivers increased arbovirus risk.

## Abstract

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector for several arboviral diseases, posing a significant threat to human populations and exacerbating health disparities. Puerto Rico is a subtropical region where A. aegypti mosquitoes circulate all the year promoting the transmission of arboviruses. A cross-sectional study in the municipality of Ponce, Puerto Rico was conducted to determine the prevalence of arbovirus in A. aegypti mosquitoes and community members, and the impact that sociodemographic and environmental factors on the presence of arbovirus in the community. Our results indicate that more than a third of the population has long-term antibodies (IgG) against chikungunya and the Mayaro virus (56% and 17%, respectively). In addition, more than two-thirds of the population have long-term antibodies (IgG) against dengue and Zika virus (96.0% and 77%, respectively). Dengue virus 1 (DENV-1) was only detected in mosquitoes from urban areas. The practice of storing water in containers uncovered and living near a river increased the odds of having arbovirus in the community (OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.8–10.6) (p < 0.05) and (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.2–3.7). Furthermore, lower income was a social determinant associated with being at risk of arboviral disease in the communities (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.4–8.5) (p < 0.05). It is recommended that public health activities be implemented, including education workshops on prevention and health promotion and health services such as vector control, to prevent arboviral diseases in communities.