WHO Launches Plan To Battle Dengue

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Thursday announced a global plan to battle dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases as they spread faster amid climate change and transitional weather.

"The rapid spread of dengue and other arboviral diseases in recent years is an alarming trend that demands coordinated response across sectors and across borders," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a statement.

Findings

Dengue cases have doubled each year since 2021 with over 12.3 million cases, including more than 7,900 deaths, which were reported in just the first eight months of 2024, said the UN health agency. That is double the 6.5 million cases reported throughout the whole of 2023.

Symptoms

While dengue can cause high fever and body aches, most people do not show any symptoms. The WHO estimated that there are around 100 million and 400 million infections each year.

How It Happens?

Dengue is caused by Aedes aegypti mosquitos and it is only spreading as the planet warms. WHO also stated that factors like unplanned urbanisation, poor water, sanitation, hygiene practices, and international travel have also affected in the rise of dengue cases. It is now an epidemic in over 130 countries, stated WHO.

The other arboviruses include chikungunya and zika. The WHO report states that an estimated of 4 billion people worldwide are at the risk of contracting dengue and other arboviruses. This number is expected to increase to 5 billion by 20250.

WHO plans to foster a coordinated global response, which also includes disease surveillance, laboratory activities, vector control and research and development of improved treatments and effective vaccines. IT also stated that it would require $55 million in funding to implement the plan over the next year.

"For maintaining clean environments to supporting vector control and seeking and providing timely medical care, everyone has a role to play in the fight against dengue." said Tedros. "This plan is a roadmap to turn the tide against this disease and other Aedes-borne arboviral diseases, protect vulnerable populations and pave the way for a healthier future," he said.