Advancing Dengue Fever Preparedness in Africa: Challenges, Resilience, and Contributions to Global Health

Abstract

Dengue Fever remains a pressing public health concern in the Global South, including in Africa, where limited resources, inadequate surveillance, weak health systems, climate change, and urbanization exacerbate the threat. This review study focuses on strategies to strengthen preparedness, capacity building efforts on surveillance, vector control, health system strengthening, community engagement, and research. Investing in training programs, research initiatives, and regional collaboration is vital. Advocacy for increased political commitment and resource allocation is necessary to drive policy support. African nations are actively contributing to global Dengue control efforts, showcasing resilience amidst adversity. There are promising prospects for improvement. Enhanced surveillance, capacity building, community engagement, research, and regional collaboration are identified as crucial strategies. Strengthening surveillance systems can provide accurate data for targeted interventions, while investing in healthcare infrastructure and training can improve diagnosis and treatment capabilities. Community engagement and education efforts can promote preventive behaviours, and research initiatives drive progress in Dengue prevention and control. Additionally, regional collaboration fosters knowledge exchange and resource sharing. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities, Africa can further strengthen its contribution to global Dengue control efforts. Through sustained investment, collaboration, and innovation, Africa has the potential to mitigate Dengue's impact and inspire similar efforts worldwide. Advocacy for increased political commitment and resource allocation is essential to drive policy support. By prioritizing Dengue control and implementing sustainable interventions tailored to local contexts, Africa can enhance public health resilience and contribute significantly to the global fight against Dengue.