WHO EPI-WIN Webinar: Dengue: current epidemiological situation and response

Background
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the dengue virus and remains a serious global public health threat. Dengue infections are the most common vector-borne viral infections worldwide, particularly impacting tropical and subtropical countries.

In the last 5 years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of cases of dengue. This increase has been particularly pronounced in the Region of the Americas.

Currently, 90 countries have known active dengue transmission in 2024, not all of which have been captured in formal reporting. As of 30 April 2024, over 7.6 million dengue cases have been reported to WHO in 2024, including 3.4 million confirmed cases, over 16 000 severe cases, and over 3000 deaths.

This webinar provides an update on the current situation and the response globally and national experiences sharing.

Speakers:

Welcome address: Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, Director a.i., Epidemic and Pandemic Prevention and Preparedness (EPP), WHO

Opening remarks: Dr Raman Velayudhan, Unit Head Veterinary Public Health, Vector Control and Environment unit. Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme, WHO

Moderator: Dr Diana Rojas Alvarez, Team Lead Arboviruses, Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention Department, WHO Health Emergencies Programme

Panel
Dr. Martina McMenamin. Epidemiologist, Acute Event Analytics Unit, WHO Health Emergencies Programme
Dr. Awa Ndir. Incident Manager G3-dengue emergency, WHO Health Emergencies Programme
Dr. Abha Jodheea Jutton, Emergency Preparedness and Response Officer. WCO Mauritius
Dr. Livia Carla Vinhal Frutoso. Head of the national surveillance of arboviruses, Ministry of Health of Brazil

The webinar was presented by Sadrish Pradhan of EPI-WIN team in WHO