The world is witnessing a troubling surge in dengue fever cases, raising alarms among health officials and prompting urgent health initiatives aimed at combating this neglected tropical disease (NTD). Recent reports have highlighted alarming increases, particularly throughout regions of India, where dengue fever is now recognized as one of the leading public health challenges.
According to data, the burden of dengue has significantly escalated, rising from approximately 1.6 lakh cases and 166 deaths recorded in 2019 to over 2.9 lakh cases with 485 deaths reported by 2023. This upward trend has drawn the attention of health authorities who are ramping up their efforts to mitigate the spread and impact of this disease.
On January 30, health advocates emphasized the pressing need for vector control and preventive measures during the observance of World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day. Doctors and medical experts have warned about the severe health risks posed by these diseases, including dengue, which particularly affects impoverished communities who often lack access to adequate medical care. These communities are most vulnerable to the devastating impact of NTDs, leading to illness, disabilities, and even death if left untreated.
Dr. Showkat from the Directorate of Health Services (DHSK) stated, “Most NTDs are preventable and treatable, but millions continue to suffer due to lack of awareness and access to medical care.” His call to action underlines the necessity for widespread health education and proactive public health measures to confront the disease.
To this end, the Punjab Education Secretary has recently initiated comprehensive anti-dengue campaigns across the Rawalpindi division. This plan aims to tackle the incremental spread of dengue. The region has been strategically divided to facilitate focused preventive measures, including the implementation of zero-tolerance policies against mosquito breeding habitats, which will be reinforced with public awareness campaigns.
“There is serious risk of the spread of dengue 1 and dengue 2 types,” the Punjab Education Secretary noted, as health officials stress the importance of immediate action to curb the anticipated surge during the upcoming dengue season.
Recent estimates suggest the emergence of dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, both of which are life-threatening conditions linked to the disease. Given these risks, actionable measures like spraying insecticides, removing stagnant water, and cleaning up potential mosquito breeding sites have been mandated. Schools have also been directed to assist in these efforts by engaging students and parents.
The link between climate change and the rising rates of dengue fever has also been highlighted by health experts. Dr. Kavita Singh from the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) revealed, “Rising temperatures due to climate change will lead to increases... leading to longer transmission seasons and increased incidence of dengue, not only in endemic areas but also greater spread in areas of lower transmission.”
The alarming combination of climate change and increasing mosquito populations brings forth additional concerns with public health. Experts predict not only higher survival rates for mosquitoes breeding at these temperatures but also extended periods of time during which diseases can be transmitted to the human population.
While some regions are increasing their efforts to address the rising tide of dengue, India remains one of the countries facing the most pronounced challenges. Official records from the Ministry of Health indicate persistent difficulties with NTDs, as they disproportionately impact the most vulnerable communities. Strategies for the control of these diseases must include enhanced community outreach and education initiatives.
Prof. Nirmal Kumar Ganguly, former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), emphasized the importance of vaccination as part of the comprehensive strategy to alleviate the burden of dengue. Recent discussions have included the introduction of vaccines such as the Takeda dengue vaccine along with those developed by Bharat Biotech and the Serum Institute of India. He remarked, “The burden of Dengue increased from about 1.6 lakh cases and 166 deaths... to 2.9 lakh cases and 485 deaths...,” stressing the urgent need for effective vaccinations to halt the disease's relentless spread.
Despite efforts to curb its spread, the public health system continues to face challenges, and persistent issues stemming from poverty, environmental degradation, and poor health infrastructure complicate the eradication of NTDs. To successfully eliminate dengue and other NTDs, health leaders argue for the necessity of integrating multi-sectoral strategies targeting health interventions alongside climate change initiatives.
With the prevalence of diseases driven by climate factors, stronger coordination across government bodies and community organizations is deemed imperative. The WHO has continuously pushed for coordinated global efforts to eliminate NTDs by 2030, stating, “While the goal of eliminating NTDs by 2030 is ambitious, it is achievable with the right combination of strong political will, resources, and coordinated efforts across multiple sectors.”
To combat the rising threat of dengue fever globally, health specialists advocate for persistent public engagement and systematic preventive measures. Without immediate and united efforts, the current epidemic could evolve, impacting some of the most vulnerable populations worldwide.