Hope for millions as over sh80b invested to devt new drugs for dengue fever

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As dengue fever spreads faster due to climate change and globalisation, the European Commission has stepped in with a major funding boost to fight the disease.

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (DG HERA) has announced an investment of €20 million, entrusted to the French development agency (AFD), to advance at least two new dengue medicines.

The research will be carried out by the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi).

According to the press statement issued on November 4, 2025, the project will include late-stage clinical trials in high-burden countries and aims to deliver affordable, accessible treatments for millions at risk.

“Dengue affects about 390 million people each year and puts immense pressure on health systems in endemic countries,” said Florika Fink-Hooijer, Director General of DG HERA, in the press statement. She added that rising temperatures and environmental degradation have intensified transmission, even in Europe.

What is Dengue Fever?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes dengue as a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.

Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Nausea
• Rash

Severe dengue can cause internal bleeding and shock, which can be fatal without timely care.

There is no specific treatment for dengue. Patients rely on rest, fluids, and medical supervision. Prevention focuses on mosquito control, eliminating stagnant water, using repellents, and wearing long clothing. Although vaccines exist, their protection varies by region and exposure.

A Global Health Investment

The press statement emphasised that dengue often overwhelms hospitals during outbreaks. The new medicines could reduce severe cases and save lives, especially among pregnant women, children, and the elderly.

Agnès Soucat, AFD’s Director of Health and Social Protection, said in the press statement that AFD is committed to supporting partnerships that bring science-driven solutions to countries with limited health infrastructure.

Anne-Claire Amprou, France’s Ambassador for Global Health, described dengue as “a global health emergency” and said the new initiative aligns with France’s Global Health Strategy.

Dengue in Uganda

Uganda has not experienced major dengue outbreaks, but research by the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) shows the virus exists at low levels.

A 2020 study in western Uganda found antibodies in about 2 percent of children tested. Health experts warn that climate change and urbanisation could increase local transmission if preventive measures are not strengthened.

Looking Ahead

Dr Luis Pizarro, Executive Director of DNDi, said in the press statement that the funding is “an investment in a healthier, more resilient future for millions of people.” The project will also create networks of clinical centres across Brazil, India, Thailand, and Malaysia under the Dengue Alliance.