Dengue fever imposes a significant economic burden on the world, with no specific treatment for the disease. Prevention is key in managing the disease, and vaccines are seen as a critical tool in proactively preventing dengue fever and managing outbreaks effectively. 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.
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. In Vietnam, clinical trials are underway for dengue vaccines, 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.
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. Countries like Brazil and Indonesia have already shown that implementing effective vaccination programs can significantly reduce the number of cases and mitigate the economic impact of dengue fever.
