Global Economic Burden of Dengue Fever: Why Vaccination Programs are the Key to Managing the Disease

Dengue fever is a disease that imposes a significant economic burden on the world, with no specific treatment available. Prevention is key in managing the disease, and vaccines are seen as a critical tool in proactively preventing it. 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.

In recent years, vaccines have been introduced into healthcare systems in countries like Brazil, Europe, and Indonesia to combat dengue outbreaks. 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 measures can enhance 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.