Reconsidering Dengue as a Neglected Tropical Disease
India is in the midst of a severe dengue outbreak. This year, Karnataka has reported over 9,000 cases, and other states are also seeing a significant increase. The WHO has documented over 7.6 million dengue cases, globally, in 2024, with 3.4 million confirmed cases, more than 16,000 classified as severe, and over 3,000 fatalities. Currently, 90 countries have active dengue transmission reports for 2024. Dengue falls under the category of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
NTDs encompass a diverse array of diseases primarily found in tropical areas, which disproportionately impact impoverished populations. They stem from a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins, resulting in serious health, social, and economic consequences.
However, Dengue has recently expanded to new regions beyond the tropics and subtropics, with endemic areas experiencing extended transmission seasons. This is likely due to climate change and variable weather patterns affecting the distribution and growth of vectors such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The migration of infected individuals and the transport of goods that might carry mosquito vectors have helped spread the disease across borders. Dengue’s reach now extends beyond poor, resource-limited countries, impacting marginalized and urban populations, as well as both affluent and deprived communities.
A more concentrated approach and specific interventions are critical for dengue control. The disease requires more resources, research into novel treatments, vector management strategies, and vaccine development. Public health initiatives could benefit from a combined strategy that incorporates a dedicated Dengue prevention and control program, maybe outside of the NTD framework, along with a decentralized, state-specific approach.
Indeed, food for thought.!!!!
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