Dengue Fever Threat: Experts Outline Integrated Solutions
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies dengue as a major global health threat, with nearly half the world’s population at risk. This mosquito-borne illness is becoming increasingly unpredictable, demanding urgent, comprehensive strategies for prevention and control.
Understanding the Threat
Each year, approximately half a million dengue cases necessitate hospitalization. Sadly, up to 25,000 people globally succumb to the disease. The WHO aims for zero dengue deaths by 2030. Their strategy emphasizes early outbreak detection, effective vector control, community engagement, and efficient vaccine deployment.
Multi-Sectoral Approach
A recent talk show, co-hosted by Takeda Vietnam Pharmaceuticals and the Health & Life newspaper, highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies. Leading experts in epidemiology, treatment, and preventive medicine discussed the current dengue situation in Vietnam, proposing integrated solutions.
Vietnam’s Dengue Situation
Dengue fever is a significant health burden in Vietnam, with cases fluctuating into the hundreds of thousands annually. The disease is now unpredictable, occurring year-round across wide areas. Severe complications and death can occur if not detected and treated early.
As of mid-2025, Vietnam had recorded over 22,974 dengue cases and five deaths, according to the Ministry of Health. Fatalities have been reported in various provinces, showing the ongoing risk, especially with concurrent outbreaks of hand-foot-and-mouth disease and COVID-19.
Dr. Vo Hai Son, deputy director of the Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention, emphasized that a synchronized approach is essential. Government agencies, communities, enterprises, and the media all have crucial roles in controlling outbreaks.
“Government agencies play the role of coordinators and policymakers; the community is the frontline in actively detecting, treating the disease early, and addressing small outbreaks through vector control measures right at the household level, especially in high-risk areas,”
—Dr. Vo Hai Son, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention
Enterprises offer medical solutions, communication, and training; the media provides accurate information. Controlling the epidemic requires proactive action, unity, and persistence from all stakeholders.
Integrated Strategies
Experts highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy to minimize fatalities and effectively control outbreaks. This involves vector control, epidemiological surveillance, early warning systems, behavior change communication, and a strengthened healthcare system. Vaccination, validated by the WHO, is crucial for proactive prevention, reducing severe disease risk.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Thai, vice head of the Infectious Diseases Control Department at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, proposed a shift to a forecast and prevention model. This adapts to changes in the epidemic’s cycles and geographical distribution.
“As the disease is no longer seasonal and can break out at any time throughout the year, investing in active surveillance systems, data analysis, and early warning mechanisms is key to controlling outbreaks effectively,”
—Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Thai, Vice Head of Infectious Diseases Control Department, National institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology
Public Perception and Action
Public underestimation of the disease remains a concern. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Duy Cuong, director of Bach Mai Institute of Tropical Medicine, points out that public complacency, in addition to extreme weather and urbanization, hinders effective control.
“Many people still underestimate dengue fever, believing it is only dangerous when accompanied by high fever or visible bleeding. As a result, they delay seeking medical attention,”
—Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Duy Cuong, Director of Bach Mai Institute of Tropical Medicine
Early detection and timely treatment are crucial. Vaccination offers a new approach to address the complexities of dengue fever, noted Dr. Cuong.
Benjamin Ping, general manager of Takeda Vietnam Pharmaceuticals, shared that an effective multi-sectoral approach is required. This involves collaboration among the government, healthcare sector, businesses, and communities, under a comprehensive strategy. Recent data from the World Health Organization suggests a rise in dengue cases globally, with over 4.2 million cases reported in 2024 (World Health Organization).
Takeda Vietnam has been actively collaborating with medical associations and hospitals, organizing numerous scientific conferences. The WHO recommends Takeda’s dengue vaccine for certain populations in countries with high transmission rates. The vaccine has been approved in 40 countries and has distributed over 15 million doses worldwide.