The ongoing dengue fever epidemic imposes a significant economic burden on the world. With no specific treatment for the disease, prevention is key to effectively managing it. Dengue outbreaks pose challenges for healthcare systems and can lead to fatal outcomes for patients.
To address these challenges, the World Health Organization (WHO) and its strategic advisory group of experts on immunization (SAGE) recommend countries with high dengue fever burden to implement additional vaccine measures. Vaccines are seen as a critical tool in proactively preventing dengue fever and managing outbreaks effectively.
Brazil, Europe, and Indonesia have already introduced dengue vaccines into their healthcare systems, with Brazil expanding its vaccination program to combat the rising number of cases. Clinical trials are underway for dengue vaccines in Vietnam, with strict regulatory processes in place to ensure safety before widespread use.
Experts believe that combining vaccines with traditional preventive methods, such as mosquito control measures, can enhance the overall effectiveness of dengue fever prevention strategies. As dengue fever continues to impact countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America, the need for comprehensive prevention measures, including vaccines, becomes increasingly urgent.
The economic burden of dengue fever is substantial, with estimates suggesting losses of up to 8.9 billion USD. With the potential for vaccines to bolster prevention efforts and reduce disease burden, it is crucial for countries to prioritize vaccination programs as part of their overall dengue control strategies.