FROM THE PANDEMIC TO THE POST-PANDEMIC: WHAT CHANGED IN THE INCIDENCE OF DENGUE IN ITABUNA, BAHIA?

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze changes in the epidemiological profile of dengue in the municipality of Itabuna, Bahia, comparing the pre-pandemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and post-pandemic periods in order to identify variations in disease incidence, possible associated factors, and their impacts on local health. This study was based on the analysis of secondary data obtained from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), referring to dengue cases reported between January 2019 and September 2025, considering variables such as age, sex, clinical outcome, hospitalizations, and deaths. The analysis demonstrated fluctuations in dengue incidence throughout the study period, with an increase in cases during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly a significant peak in 2022. The findings suggest a possible influence of environmental factors and limitations in epidemiological surveillance, while also highlighting the endemic nature of the disease in the municipality. It is concluded that dengue occurrence showed significant variations among the periods analyzed, reinforcing the need for continuous prevention, monitoring, and strengthening of epidemiological surveillance strategies.