A study of geospatial distribution and seasonal trend of dengue fever in a Ratnagiri District of Konkan Region of Maharashtra

Introduction: Dengue fever, a vector-borne disease primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, poses a significant public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions, including the Asia-Pacific. The Konkan region of Maharashtra, with heavy monsoon rainfall, an average temperature of 25ºC, and 73% humidity, provides an ideal environment for dengue transmission.

Methods: A record-based descriptive study was conducted in Ratnagiri district (August 2024–January 2025) using secondary data from the government health administration (January 2020–December 2023). Descriptive statistics determined epidemiological distribution, while Pearson’s Chi-square test assessed associations. Geospatial mapping with QGIS 3.40.1 visualized disease patterns.

Results: Among 398 cases, males (64.57%) had a significantly higher burden than females (35.43%) (p < 0.001). The 16–30 age group was most affected (41.46%). Cases peaked in September–October. Ratnagiri and Chiplun subdivisions had the highest burden, with five prominent hotspots identified.

Conclusion: The monsoon and post-monsoon periods were high-risk transmission windows. Geospatial mapping can aid real-time monitoring, targeted vector control, and outbreak preparedness. Further research should explore the socio-environmental determinants of dengue transmission.