Work

Dengue and Aedes aegypti expansion into high-altitude areas of Latin America: A scoping review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Background: and dengue virus (DENV) is expanding into high-altitude, historically non-endemic ecosystems across Latin America. This scoping review synthesizes evidence on the ecological limits, thermal thresholds, and socio-environmental drivers that govern this altitudinal expansion. Methods: Following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, and Web of Science through February 2026. Evidence was extracted from 28 eligible studies evaluating vector establishment, viral circulation, and environmental predictors across elevation gradients. Results: has breached the historical ecological barrier of 1500 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.). Larval infestation and autochthonous viral transmission are documented above 2000 m.a.s.l., reaching established limits of 2550 m.a.s.l., with oviposition recorded up to 2900 m.a.s.l. Colonization is driven by thermal anomalies linked to El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, coupled with rapid urbanization and intermittent municipal water supply. Conclusions: Topographies below 2500 m.a.s.l. no longer provide natural insulation against vector establishment. Public health frameworks must transition toward predictive microclimatic vector surveillance in mountain communities.

Source: New Microbes and New Infections

DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2026.101873

Authors: Brenda Milena Chimbo-Paz, Jaime David Acosta-España, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales