Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the key factors contributing to the dengue outbreak in Oman. METHODS: Data on climate (e.g., temperature, humidity, wind pace), population traits (e.g., populace density), and vector dynamics (e.g., mosquito density) within the Seeb district of Oman from 2022 to 2023 were gathered. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was performed to study which variables affect dengue outbreaks. RESULTS: The results indicate that climatic factors significantly affect the dengue vector (β = -0.361, p < 0.001) but do not directly impact the dengue outbreak. Population characteristics, however, have a more substantial impact on dengue transmission, with a total effect (β = 0.231, p = 0.002) being relatively higher than that of the vector itself (total effect: β = 0.116, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Even with ongoing vector intervention efforts, the study underscores the need to include innovative public health interventions when considering environmental and demographic factors. More advantageous surveillance and focused interventions in excessive-threat regions are essential to mitigate the effect of dengue in Oman.