![Dengue outbreak response Dengue infections are a growing global public health concern](/https/www.who.int/images/default-source/wpro/emergencies-hub/dengue-2024/dengue-response-01.png?sfvrsn=b878c5a2_7)
![Dengue outbreak response Dengue infections are a growing global public health concern](/https/www.who.int/images/default-source/wpro/emergencies-hub/dengue-2024/dengue-response-01.png?sfvrsn=b878c5a2_7)
Dengue infections have become a growing global public health concern in recent months. In December 2023, WHO assessed the global risk level as high and brought attention to preparedness and response actions needed. Data from the Western Pacific Region show an escalation in dengue outbreaks, both in endemic areas and beyond. Since January 2024, several countries have reported a rise in dengue. For more details, read WHO’s bi-weekly dengue situation reports for the Region.
The expansion of dengue viruses (four serotypes) beyond endemic transmission areas presents additional challenges. A significant population remains immunologically naïve to the circulating viruses, increasing the risk of outbreaks. Moreover, people living in areas with geographic expansion of dengue might lack awareness of early symptoms of dengue infection, particularly severe disease warning signs, leading to potential delays in seeking timely health care. Other challenges include difficulty in accessing basic healthcare and clinical management services, stockouts of essential laboratory diagnostic supplies, limited prevention and vector control tools and a significant shortage of trained healthcare workers.