Global Strategies for Dengue Fever Control: Integrated Solutions Outlined

In response to ASEAN Dengue Day on June 15, 2025, a significant talk show took place on June 14 in Hanoi, focusing on collaborative efforts to combat dengue fever, aiming for zero dengue-related deaths. This event highlighted the urgent need for multi-sectoral dialogue and public awareness, particularly as the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified dengue as one of the top ten global health threats. The WHO estimates that around 3.9 billion people worldwide are at risk of contracting the dengue virus, with approximately 500,000 cases requiring hospitalization and up to 25,000 annual deaths attributed to the disease.

The WHO has set a global goal to achieve zero dengue deaths by 2030, as outlined in the Global Strategy for Dengue Prevention and Control. This strategy emphasizes critical actions such as early outbreak detection and response, sustainable vector control, community engagement, and efficient vaccine deployment. The talk show, co-hosted by Health & Life newspaper and Takeda Vietnam Pharmaceuticals, showcased leading experts in epidemiology and preventive medicine. They discussed the current state of dengue in Vietnam, assessing challenges and proposing integrated strategies tailored to the country's evolving epidemiological landscape.

Dengue fever has become a significant public health concern in Vietnam, with the Ministry of Health reporting 22,974 cases and five fatalities as of mid-2025, with deaths occurring in provinces such as Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City. The disease's unpredictable nature, now occurring year-round and manifesting in severe complications without timely detection, poses significant risks.

Dr. Vo Hai Son, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention, emphasized the necessity of a synchronized approach to tackle dengue. He stated, "Government agencies must coordinate and develop policies, while the community plays a crucial role in early disease detection and vector control, especially in high-risk areas." He underscored the importance of collaboration among governmental bodies, healthcare enterprises, and media to enhance public awareness and proactive measures against dengue.

To effectively minimize fatalities, experts advocate for a comprehensive strategy encompassing vector control, epidemiological surveillance, early warning systems, behavior change communication, and healthcare system capacity enhancement. Vaccinations, validated by the WHO, are viewed as integral to this strategy, aiding in proactive prevention and reducing severe disease risks.

Associate Professor Dr. Pham Quang Thai, Vice Head of the Infectious Diseases Control Department at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, urged a shift towards a forecast and prevention model, given the disease's year-round presence. He highlighted the need for investments in surveillance systems and data analysis to manage outbreaks effectively.

Public complacency regarding the severity of dengue fever remains a troubling concern. Associate Professor Dr. Do Duy Cuong, Director of the Bach Mai Institute of Tropical Medicine, noted that many individuals underestimate the disease, delaying medical attention until severe complications arise. He stated, "Early detection and timely treatment save lives. As both a doctor and a survivor of dengue fever, I deeply understand the burden and complications of this disease."

Benjamin Ping, General Manager of Takeda Vietnam Pharmaceuticals, reiterated the importance of a multi-sectoral approach, involving government, healthcare, and community collaboration. He stressed the need for public awareness campaigns and ensuring sustainable vaccine supplies in Vietnam. Over the past year, Takeda Vietnam has organized 40 scientific conferences on dengue, updating healthcare professionals on new knowledge in pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

The WHO currently recommends the use of Takeda's dengue vaccine for high-risk populations in countries facing significant dengue burdens. This vaccine has been approved in 40 countries, with over 15 million doses distributed globally. Experts convened in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to discuss the role of vaccines in an integrated dengue prevention strategy, emphasizing the need for synchronized implementation of multiple solutions. As dengue fever transitions from a seasonal outbreak to a year-round threat, experts warn of escalating treatment costs, potentially reaching $40,000 per case.

The implications of these discussions are profound, as they not only inform Vietnam’s public health strategy but may also influence regional and global efforts to combat dengue fever effectively. The ongoing commitment from all stakeholders is crucial to achieving the targeted goal of zero dengue deaths by 2030, ensuring that public health initiatives are both comprehensive and sustainable.