ABSTRACT

Objective: To analyse meteorological data (temperature, rainfall and relative humidity) and vector-borne diseases (malaria, dengue and leptospirosis) to determine trends that may exist between and among variables within the Georgetown area.

Methods: This study took on a retrospective approach which used data from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Hydro-meteorological Department to assess the true nature of the relationship between climate and vector-borne diseases within the Georgetown area. Correlation and regression analyses were done using SPSS 13 and JMP.

Results: The results yielded weak positive correlations between climate variables and vectorborne disease with strongest the correlation between P falciparum and P malariae. Leptospirosis showed positive correlation with humidity and dengue showed positive correlation with all three climate variables measured. Projections showed that with a 1oC increase in temperature, 1% increase in relative humidity and 50-mm increase in rainfall, there were significant increases in malaria and leptospirosis.

Conclusion: There have been theories that suggest a connection between climate variables and vector-borne disease, however, conclusive evidence does not exist. In the present study, the need for research that yields more unwavering results are highlighted. There is no doubt that climate variables influence vector-borne diseases. Therefore, it is recommended that an interdisciplinary approach be taken to ensure reliability and foster a better understanding between climate variables and vector-borne disease.