Antiviral Shows Promise Against All dengue Serotypes in Study
Baltimore – A newly studied antiviral has demonstrated protection against all four serotypes of the dengue virus in a controlled study,results published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2500179) show. While a subsequent field study suggested a protective effect, the manufacturer has halted clinical development of the drug.
Dengue fever, the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral illness affecting humans, poses a significant global health threat. Approximately half of the worldS population resides in areas where Aedes mosquitoes – the vectors for dengue - are endemic. The virus causes a wide spectrum of illness, ranging from mild, flu-like symptoms to severe dengue, which can be fatal. The development of effective treatments is crucial, as dengue cases are increasing worldwide due to factors like climate change and urbanization, placing a growing burden on healthcare systems and impacting millions of lives annually.
The research offers a potential breakthrough in combating the disease, which currently lacks specific antiviral treatments.Existing management focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms.
