Background: Dengue is a possibly life-threatening human mosquito-borne viral infection widely spread in peridomestic (sub)tropical climates. The global incidence has expanded rapidly in the last decades, with 40% of the world's population currently at risk. To date, no anti-viral treatment other than supportive care exists. In 2015, the first and only dengue-vaccine, CYD-TDV, received marketing authorization.
Objectives: To present the current understanding of dengue in terms of epidemiology, transmission, pathogenesis, disease management and prevention. To illustrate the knowledge gaps that remain to be filled in order to control dengue and achieve the WHO 2010-2020 goals.
Methods: An updated systematic review (2009-2019) was carried out. The databases Pubmed, Embase and The Cochrane Library were searched along with WHO and CDC guidelines.
Results: In total, 39 articles were included. Contemporary climatic and economic factors significantly contributed to the emergence of epidemic dengue. Unfortunately, CYD-TDV failed to meet safety and efficacy demands. New vaccination approaches are in the pipeline along with innovative vector-control strategies. Current anti-viral drug research focuses on repurposing drugs in addition to specific anti-dengue strategies that interfere with viral replication.
Conclusion: The lack of understanding dengue pathogenesis and immunology has hampered the development of an effective vaccine. Recent research has provided new insights into the therapeutic and prophylactic approach. Implementation of complementary methods to control disease burden are required considering the socio-economic impact of this rapidly emerging global disease.
Keywords: dengue vaccines; dengue virus; severe dengue; signs and symptoms; therapeutics.