Dengue: An Expanding Neglected Tropical Disease

The World Health Origanization has classified dengue as a major international public health concern. The reasons for the resurgence are complex, and are likely a combination of multiple factors, including population growth associated with rapid uncontrolled urbanization, increased movement of viruses in people among countries and regions via international travel, demographic changes, poor vector control, genetic changes in circulating or introduced viruses, and modulating climatic factors. The past decade has seen more investment in vaccine development and novel vector control measures than ever before. Three dengue vaccine candidates are far advanced in development, with CYD-TDV being the first licensed dengue vaccine. However, this vaccine showed serostatus dependent performance. The two other dengue vaccines are currently in Phase 3 efficacy trials.