An ecosystem perspective in the socio-cultural evaluation of dengue in two Colombian towns

Despite extensive public health efforts, dengue is still a major health concern in Colombia. The objective of this study was to provide an ecosystem and cross-disciplinary perspective on the dengue situation in two Colombian towns. The article focuses on presenting the anthropological methodology and research findings. An interdisciplinary team gathered quantitative (cross-sectional), meteorological, entomological, and qualitative data (based on medical anthropology) through fieldwork and archival research. According to the qualitative data, dengue can be described as a point of convergence between public health policies, the affected population, the environment, and the social dynamics generated through this interaction. Dengue is illustrative as a disease, in that it has a negative impact on public health, but individuals in Colombia have learned to live and cope with it. Dengue prevalence and its on-going historical presence have made it part of everyday community life, viewed as a minor health issue.

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Suárez,Roberto, González,Catalina, Carrasquilla,Gabriel, Quintero,Juliana
Format:	Digital revista
Language:	English
Published:	Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz 2009
Online Access:	http://old.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0102-311X2009001300010
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