Insights into Dengue Prevalence, Outbreaks, Virus Replication, Diagnosis, Treatment, Vector Control, and Preventive Strategies: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV), a mosquito-borne RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family, poses a major global health challenge, with nearly half of the world’s population at risk and annual cases ranging from 100 to 400 million. It is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, specifically Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which thrive in tropical and subtropical regions. The virus consists of four serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4), each conferring lifelong immunity against reinfection by the same serotype but lacking cross-immunity. The increasing incidence of dengue outbreaks is driven by climate change, urbanization, and inadequate vector control measures, with regions such as South Asia, the Americas, and Southeast Asia reporting millions of cases annually. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of dengue epidemiology, virus transmission dynamics, replication mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic approaches. It also explores recent advancements in vaccine development, particularly the comparison between Qdenga and Dengvaxia, highlighting their differences in efficacy, safety, and target populations. Despite efforts in vaccine research, vector control remains the primary strategy for dengue prevention, focusing on environmental management, biological control, and targeted chemical interventions. The study further examines Bangladesh as a case study, documenting its largest-ever dengue outbreak in 2023 and its transition into an endemic phase in early 2025. The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced surveillance systems, integrated vector management, and public health initiatives to combat dengue globally. Strengthening diagnostic capabilities, expanding vaccination programs, and investing in innovative mosquito control strategies will be crucial in mitigating the growing burden of dengue worldwide. Bangladesh Journal of Infectious Diseases, June 2026;13(1):397-410