EVOLUTION OF DENGUE IN RIO GRANDE DO SUL: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE, SPATIALITY AND HEALTH INDICATORS

Abstract

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, with a relevant impact on global public health. This study aimed to analyze the spatio-temporal evolution of dengue, the epidemiological profile of those affected, and health indicators in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2014 and 2023. The research used data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and evaluated confirmed cases of dengue according to the variables of sex, age group, color/race and education. A total of 127,904 cases were recorded in the period analyzed, with a predominance of women, aged 20 to 59 years, white and with elementary or secondary education. The Metropolitan, Missioneira and North macro-regions concentrated the highest incidence rates. The study showed that factors such as accelerated urbanization, climate change, and population dynamics have contributed to the expansion of dengue in previously non-endemic areas. It is concluded that the effective control of the disease in Rio Grande do Sul requires a multidimensional, interdisciplinary and regional approach, with the strengthening of epidemiological surveillance and a more equitable distribution of health resources.