Global dengue cases have reached over 14 million in 2024, marking a record high. Leaders, researchers, and advocates from 22 countries convened at the 8th Asia Dengue Summit in Manila to emphasize the need for urgent and unified action in eliminating dengue-related deaths.

The summit, themed 'Toward Zero Dengue Deaths: Science, Strategy, and Solidarity,' took place from June 15 to 18 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, with more than 600 participants in attendance. Organized by Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA), the event highlighted the importance of regional collaboration, policy innovation, and community engagement to address the escalating dengue crisis, especially in Asia, which carries 70% of the global dengue burden.

'This summit sends a clear message: dengue is preventable. Through scientific advancements, effective strategies, and strong partnerships, achieving zero dengue deaths is within reach,' stated Dr. Ma. Rosario Z. Capeding, the summit's organizing chair, during her opening address. She also provided an overview of the dengue situation in the Philippines.

Co-chair Dr. Fatima I. Gimenez highlighted the Philippines' potential to contribute to the regional fight against dengue. 'We can share our successes in combating dengue and become valuable partners and allies in this battle,' she expressed.

ADVA, through its Asia Dengue Policy Working Group, unveiled a new white paper titled 'Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia.' The paper urges countries to implement more coordinated and accountable systems to manage outbreaks effectively and safeguard vulnerable populations.

For the Philippines, the white paper recommends expanding prevention strategies, such as vaccination, and enhancing access to quality care based on guidelines, particularly in underserved areas. It also emphasizes the importance of countering misinformation and vaccine hesitancy through targeted communication and global collaboration.

'The government cannot tackle this challenge alone,' emphasized Gimenez. 'Healthcare workers, advocates, the public, and the media must all work together in this endeavor.'

One of the summit's highlights is the Dengue Slayers Challenge, a regional youth innovation competition co-hosted by ADVA and Junior Achievement. In its second year, the program tasked over 1,800 students from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand with developing technological solutions for mosquito control and health monitoring.

Out of 492 teams, the top contenders will showcase their ideas at the Asia Pacific Grand Finals in Manila on June 17. This competition promotes digital innovation, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration, empowering students to play an active role in shaping future responses to dengue.

The summit also featured DengCast, ADVA's official podcast platform aimed at enhancing public engagement and raising awareness about dengue through expert interviews and community-driven narratives. Produced by ADVA:NexGen, DengCast shares insights from public health advocates across Asia and encourages new voices to participate in the dialogue.

'This goes beyond a podcast. It represents a growing movement to educate, engage, and empower individuals to take action,' stated ADVA.

As the dengue crisis intensifies, the Asia Dengue Summit acts as a call to action. With a renewed commitment, innovative solutions, and inclusive partnerships, ADVA and its allies aim to combat one of Asia's most persistent public health threats and move closer to a future where dengue-related deaths are eradicated.