Parisa Mahdevar - Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
Mona Sharififard - Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
Elham Maraghi - Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
Elham Jahanifard - Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
Shahla Bigdeli - Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Health Center of Khuzestan Province, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.

Background: Natural disasters, such as floods provide the basis for spreading vector-borne diseases by creating environmental changes. This study aims to investigate the common vector-borne diseases during floods in Khuzestan Province, Iran, in ۲۰۱۹ and the strategies and challenges to control them. Materials and Methods: This research is applied objectively and it is a descriptive survey in terms of collecting data using a qualitative method. The statistical population in the qualitative section included ۱۵ experts from health centers in Khuzestan Province with a history of presence in flooded areas who were purposively selected using the snowball technique. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview. Results: Qualitative data were categorized into ۵ categories of common arthropods, common vector-borne diseases, vector control strategies and challenges, and organs involved in vector control programs during floods. The most common arthropods were lice, mites, mosquitoes, flies, and scorpions. The most prevalent vector-borne diseases during the flood were scabies, pediculosis, mosquito bites, and scorpions. The critical challenge was the lack of national vector control guideline in disaster condition. Conclusion: Considering the history of floods and health problems caused by these natural disasters, it is necessary to recognize the common vector-borne diseases, develop national guidelines, and provide solutions to deal with them.

Vector-borne disease, Challenge, Khuzestan Province, Health centers