Unraveling the dynamics of dengue in Metahara town, East Shewa, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023

The dengue outbreak in Metahara town was driven by epidemiological, entomological, and environmental factors, with Aedes aegypti as the primary vector. The ongoing circulation of DENV-3, coupled with insufficient vector control measures, poses a serious public health threat. Key contributing factors to the outbreak include the lack of utilization of long-lasting insecticide nets (LLINs) during the daytime, improper water storage practices, insufficient public knowledge regarding transmission and prevention strategies, and inadequate protective clothing choices that increase vulnerability to mosquito bites. Strategies including vector control, community education, promotion of protective clothing, and improved surveillance were recommended.