Global epidemiology and evolutionary dynamics of arboviruses: A systematic review of surveillance, control strategies, and emerging threats
Ebrahim Abbasi
Abstract
Arboviral diseases, transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, represent a growing global health challenge. The spread of dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever has been associated with factors such as climate change, urbanization, and increased global mobility. We conducted a systematic review of the literature published between January 2000 and December 2024, screening 487 studies, of which 11 met predefined inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis (PROSPERO registration: CRD42021231605). The review integrates evidence from epidemiological reports, molecular surveillance studies, and evaluations of control strategies across endemic and emerging regions. Findings indicate a marked geographic expansion of major arboviruses beyond traditional endemic zones, with multiple studies reporting substantial increases in incidence in temperate regions over the past two decades. Molecular analyses consistently demonstrate high genetic diversity and ongoing viral evolution, reflecting adaptation to environmental and host pressures. The review also highlights persistent challenges in disease control, including widespread insecticide resistance, uneven surveillance capacity, and limitations in vaccine deployment. Emerging interventions such as Wolbachia-based vector control, genetically modified mosquitoes, and newer dengue and chikungunya vaccines show promise but require integration within broader surveillance, health-system, and governance frameworks. Overall, the findings underscore the need for coordinated, multisectoral approaches to strengthen early detection, improve control strategies, and mitigate the growing global burden of arboviral diseases. • Global Expansion of Arboviruses : Arboviral diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever are spreading beyond traditional endemic regions due to climate change, urbanization, and increased global mobility. • Molecular Evolution and Genetic Diversity : Arboviruses exhibit high genetic variability, with mutations influencing their transmission potential, host adaptation, and resistance to control measures. • Surveillance and Diagnostic Advances : Genomic surveillance, molecular diagnostics, and real-time monitoring tools have enhanced early outbreak detection, though significant gaps remain in low-resource settings. • Vector Control Challenges : The widespread emergence of insecticide resistance in Aedes mosquitoes threatens traditional control strategies, necessitating the adoption of novel approaches such as Wolbachia-based and genetically modified mosquito programs. • Emerging Threats and Public Health Implications : The continued evolution of arboviruses, coupled with environmental and socio-economic changes, underscores the urgent need for global collaboration, improved surveillance systems, and innovative intervention strategies.