On June 5th in Malaysia, international health experts gathered for the 7th Asian Dengue Summit to discuss the growing global burden of dengue fever. The disease, which was once confined to Southeast Asia and Asia, has now spread to more than 129 countries, with over 7.6 million cases recorded by April 30th, 2021. This increase is largely due to factors such as changes in mosquito distribution, increased vector diversity, climate change, and the El Nino phenomenon.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against underestimating the global burden of dengue fever. Experts at the conference emphasized the importance of controlling mosquito populations through various methods such as spraying insecticides and using mosquito nets. Additionally, they discussed the development of vaccines and antiviral drugs to prevent the spread of the disease.
One challenge faced in vaccine development is the complex antigenic evolution of the virus. Despite this hurdle, WHO-approved vaccines like Dengvaxia and Qdenga are available in some countries with high dengue burdens. Experts also highlighted community engagement as a crucial aspect in combating dengue fever by raising awareness about the disease through programs like iDengue portal in Malaysia and Young ADVA program.
Overall, the conference aimed to share successful epidemiological strategies and innovative approaches towards achieving a “Zero death” goal from dengue fever by 2030.