It represents the average sea-surface temperature variations across the tropical Indian Ocean.
It has emerged as a key indicator for predicting the magnitude and timing of dengue epidemics in each country.
Its association with the Southern Hemisphere is stronger than that with the Northern Hemisphere.
It has a more pronounced impact on temperatures in tropical regions.
The link between the Indian Ocean’s temperature and dengue incidence is likely due to its influence on regional temperatures through teleconnections, large-scale atmospheric patterns that can transfer heat and moisture across vast distances.