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News.com.au
24-06-2025
- Health
- News.com.au
Dengue surges as climate change bites but one Aussie drug trial has slapped symptoms
Dengue cases explode as climate change and urban sprawl fuel surge World scrambles as virus spreads with no easy fix Island Pharma's dengue drug cuts symptoms in Phase 2 trial There's a buzz in the air. You might not notice it at first, but it's becoming harder to ignore. It belongs to mosquitoes, and they're not just a nuisance anymore. They're carrying a virus that's spreading fast, breaking out of the tropics and catching the world off guard. Dengue fever, once considered a regional menace, has gone global. In 2023, the world recorded over 6 million cases. In 2024, they have exploded to as high as 2.8 million cases a month. So what's going on? According to Professor Zulkifli Ismail, Chairman of the Asia Dengue Voice and Action Group (ADVA), a perfect storm is brewing. 'There are a number of things that are thought to drive this increase. The most popular of which is climate change and global warming that favours the mosquito breeding habits,' he told Stockhead. Rapid urbanisation and more new construction sites also create new water collections for Aedes eggs. In addition, inadequate vector control causes an increase in the Aedes mosquito, the Professor added. 'An example is fogging that's meant to kill adult mosquitoes, but inevitably also kills frogs that feed on the mosquitoes and larvae.' People's habits also play a role. When we don't take care of the environment or delay seeing a doctor when symptoms start, it gives the virus more chances to spread. 'It's thought that almost 70% of dengue cases are asymptomatic, meaning that these are potential mosquito-bite victims that can help to transmit the virus.' Connection between climate change and dengue Dengue travels through two species of mosquitoes: Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, who act like little flying syringes. These insects are cold-blooded, which means their biology speeds up with heat. Climate change is therefore making conditions more ideal for them. Warmer temperatures are helping them breed faster, live longer, and spread into regions that were once too cold for outbreaks to take hold. A recent study spanning 21 countries found that climate change alone is responsible for about 20% of dengue's rise from 1995 to 2014. And that's in regions where dengue was already endemic, like Brazil, Indonesia and India. The outlook is worse for parts of the world that are just now entering mosquito-friendly territory. 'There are certain 'hot spot' areas and these are related to the density of the Aedes aegypti and, to an extent, the Aedes albopictus mosquitoes that can transfer the virus from one person to another,' said Professor Ismail. And then there's the world's urban sprawl where rubbish builds up. That, plus global travel, is a recipe for outbreaks. Not just 'breakbone fever' Dengue earned the nickname 'breakbone fever' because of the intense muscle and joint pain it can cause, which makes you feel like your bones are cracking. In severe cases, dengue can lead to internal bleeding, low platelet counts, and even organ failure. It can also affect the nervous system, causing conditions like encephalitis or Guillain-Barré syndrome. There are four types of the virus, so getting dengue once doesn't mean you're safe. Repeat infections can be worse. And there's still no widely available treatment. Supportive care and fluids are the standard. Vaccines exist, but they're complex and not easy to access. Professor Ismail's group, ADVA, helps countries improve their local responses by sharing expertise and encouraging more coordinated action. Some countries, like Indonesia and Malaysia, have tried using Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes to reduce the spread of dengue. The results have been good, but the method is expensive and not easy to roll out everywhere. Hope from Australia's Island Pharma? With the virus on the march and few medical options on the table, an Aussie biotech called Island Pharmaceuticals (ASX:ILA) is starting to draw attention. Its lead candidate, ISLA-101, is a repurposed antiviral. It was originally developed for other uses, including cancer, but is now being trialled as a potential treatment and preventative for dengue fever. The drug works by stopping a key viral protein from entering the nucleus of human cells. That step is essential for the virus to replicate. If the protein can't get in, the virus can't multiply. It's a clean, targeted mechanism, and so far, it's showing signs of promise. Island recently completed its Phase 2a/b PROTECT trial in the US, using a dengue human infection model. This model is as close as possible to a real-world scenario, but within a controlled environment. Healthy volunteers were given either ISLA-101 or a placebo, then deliberately exposed to a weakened strain of dengue virus. This strain, provided by the US Army, causes mild to moderate symptoms and allows researchers to study viraemia and drug response safely. More on Island's trials The trial was split into two parts. In the preventative arm (Phase 2a), participants received ISLA-101 three days before virus exposure. The results were encouraging. Those given the drug had a clear drop in viral load and reported fewer symptoms than those on placebo. On average, the placebo group reported around 63% of all possible dengue symptoms, while those given ISLA-101 reported about 33%. This suggests the drug may help prevent or reduce the severity of infection when taken early. In the treatment arm (Phase 2b), participants were exposed to dengue first, then given ISLA-101 seven days later. There were signs the drug still had an effect on viral replication, but because some participants were already showing symptoms at the time of dosing, changes in clinical outcomes were less consistent and are still under analysis. Importantly, the trial met its key objectives. It confirmed safety, reached the target drug concentration in blood, and showed early signs of antiviral activity. The results were strong enough to warrant deeper clinical investigation. The world is watching, and waiting ... Professor Stephen Thomas, who helped oversee the trial, said the dengue problem is worsening, and the number of candidate countermeasures in clinical testing does not align with the global scope of the problem. 'For this reason, we are very excited Island's candidate compound demonstrated evidence of antiviral activity against a rigorous dengue human infection model. These results set the stage for continued clinical development.' The study also involved a strong group of collaborators, including Island, Upstate Medical University, the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and the US Army's Medical Research Program. With these Phase 2a/b results now in hand, Island is reviewing the data with its scientific and clinical advisors to plan the next stage. This could include a larger study and more detailed analysis of both prevention and treatment use cases. If ISLA-101 continues to show clinical benefit, it may become eligible for a Priority Review Voucher from the FDA. These vouchers allow faster approval for future drugs or can be sold to other companies, often for over US$110 million. "If antiviral can convincingly reduce the viraemia and also mitigate severe dengue, it will be one of the tools in our armamentarium to treat dengue cases," said Professor Ismail. It's still early, but in a world with millions of dengue infections each year and no widely available treatment, Island's progress is worth paying close attention to. At Stockhead we tell it like it is. While Island Pharmaceuticals is a Stockhead advertiser, it did not sponsor this article.
GMA Network
16-06-2025
- Health
- GMA Network
8th Asia Dengue Summit calls for unified action amid record global cases
With global dengue cases surging to over 14 million in 2024—the most ever recorded—health leaders, researchers, and advocates from 22 countries gathered at the 8th Asia Dengue Summit in Manila to push for urgent and united action toward eliminating dengue-related deaths. The summit, themed 'Toward Zero Dengue Deaths: Science, Strategy, and Solidarity,' runs from June 15 to 18 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, bringing together more than 600 participants. Organized by the group Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA), the event underscored the pressing need for regional collaboration, policy innovation, and strong community engagement to tackle the growing dengue crisis, particularly in Asia, which now bears 70% of the global dengue burden. 'This summit delivers a unifying message: dengue is preventable. With scientific innovation, the right strategies, and strong partnerships, achieving zero dengue deaths is possible,' said Dr. Ma. Rosario Z. Capeding, organizing chair of the summit, in her opening remarks. She also presented an overview of the dengue situation in the Philippines. Co-chair Dr. Fatima I. Gimenez emphasized the country's potential to contribute to the regional fight. 'We can share our own achievements in this battle against dengue and be considered strong partners and powerful allies,' she said. ADVA, through its Asia Dengue Policy Working Group, also launched a new white paper, 'Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia.' The document urges countries to adopt more coordinated and accountable systems to better manage outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations. For the Philippines, the paper recommends scaling up prevention strategies, including vaccination, and improving access to quality, guideline-based care, especially in underserved communities. It also highlights the need to counter misinformation and vaccine hesitancy through targeted communication and global cooperation. 'Government can't do this alone,' stressed Gimenez. 'The health workers, advocates, the public, and media—we are all in this together.' One of the summit's highlights is the return of the Dengue Slayers Challenge, a regional youth innovation competition co-organized by ADVA and Junior Achievement. Now in its second year, the program challenged over 1,800 students from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand to develop technological solutions for mosquito control and health monitoring. From 492 teams, the best will present their ideas at the Asia Pacific Grand Finals in Manila on June 17. The competition promotes digital innovation, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration, empowering students to take an active role in shaping future dengue responses. The summit also spotlighted DengCast, ADVA's official podcast platform dedicated to deepening public engagement and raising awareness on dengue through expert interviews and community-driven stories. Produced by ADVA:NexGen, DengCast shares insights from public health champions across Asia and invites new voices to join the conversation. 'This is more than a podcast. It's a growing movement to educate, engage, and empower people to act,' ADVA said in a statement. As the dengue crisis escalates, the Asia Dengue Summit serves as a clarion call for action. With renewed commitment, innovative solutions, and inclusive partnerships, ADVA and its allies hope to turn the tide on one of Asia's most persistent public health threats—and move closer to a future where no one dies from dengue. — BM, GMA Integrated News
Associated Press
16-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
8th Asia Dengue Summit Renews Call to Achieve Zero Dengue Deaths, with a Record 14 million Global Cases Reported in 2024
Health leaders, researchers, and advocates unite to advance efforts against dengue through innovation, prevention, and cross-sector collaboration. MANILA, Philippines, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As dengue cases in 2024 double to over 14 million globally, with Asia accounting for 70% of the global burden in 2024[1], the Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA) Group reinforces the call for stronger policies to strengthen dengue resilience at the 8th Asia Dengue Summit held at the Crowne Plaza Galeria Manila. Themed Toward Zero Dengue Deaths: Science, Strategy, and Solidarity, the summit held from 15 to 18 June 2025 convened over 600 participants from 22 countries, including dengue experts, global health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and advocates. 'With dengue cases persistently growing in many parts of the world including the Philippines, this summit delivers a unifying message: Dengue is preventable – and with scientific innovation, the right strategies, and strong community partnerships, achieving Zero Dengue Deaths is achievable. We want to protect lives, eliminate preventable deaths, and put a stop to this global threat,' said Dr. Ma. Rosario Z. Capeding, Organizing Chair for the 8th Asia Dengue Summit. Dr. Capeding presented an overview of dengue disease in the Philippines during the first day of the 4-day summit. 'While we can learn from the successful campaigns of our neighboring countries through this summit, we can also take this opportunity to share our own experience because we have the expertise and the commitment of our dedicated scientific community. We can share our own achievements in this battle against dengue and be considered as strong partners and powerful allies,' said Dr. Fatima I. Gimenez, Organizing Committee Co-Chair Scientific of the summit. The Asia Dengue Summit serves not only as a platform for dialogue among policymakers and advocates, but also as a springboard for lasting partnerships and actions across sectors. ADVA, through the Asia Dengue Policy Working Group (the first under the Asia Dengue Task Force) recently released a white paper titled 'Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia.' The paper calls for stronger regional coordination and national accountability so that Asia can build more resilient and equitable systems to manage dengue and protect vulnerable populations.[1] Its country recommendation for the Philippines includes strengthening both dengue prevention through vaccination and quality care delivery. Targeted communication and global collaboration can counter misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, while expanding treatment access and ensuring guideline-based care will help save lives, especially in underserved areas.[2] 'Government can't do this alone. Every sector has a part to play,' added Dr. Gimenez. 'The health workers, advocates, the public, and media – we are all in this together. We can turn the tide on dengue.' Empowering the next generation of dengue champions Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the Dengue Slayers Challenge returns for a second year, continuing ADVA's partnership with Junior Achievement to empower youths in the fight against dengue. This regional competition brings together students from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines, challenging them to develop innovative solutions that address the real-world complexities of dengue prevention and control. This year, 492 teams comprising 1,812 students participated across the five countries. Participants were tasked to prototype or conceptualize technologies aimed at mosquito control or health monitoring – with a strong emphasis on digital innovation, community impact, and environment sustainability. Through this challenge, young minds not only gain exposure to international collaboration and public health issues but also take an active role in shaping the future of dengue response. Top student teams from the five participating countries will showcase their winning solutions at the Asia Pacific Grand Finals, taking place in Manila on 17 June 2025. The event celebrates the creativity, passion, and commitment of these young innovators as they present their solutions on a regional stage. Spotlight on DengCast: Driving Dialogue to raise dengue awareness As part of its ongoing commitment to building advocacy and strengthening public engagement, ADVA showcased DengCast – its dedicated podcast platform to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations around dengue. Produced by ADVA:NexGen and available on all major platforms, DengCast features voices from across Asia, including public health experts, community leaders, and researchers, offering regional perspectives and locally driven insights. The podcast will feature dialogue with individuals who have spent their lives making a significant difference in dengue control, as well as those who are on the cutting edge of eliminating this deadly disease. The platform continues to grow and welcomes new contributors to help broaden the conversation and inspire action at all levels of society. ADVA invites stakeholders and experts to be part of future DengCast episodes and join this regional movement to inform, engage, and empower communities in the dengue response. For more information about the 8th Asia Dengue Summit or to access resources on dengue prevention and advocacy, visit or To read the Asia Dengue Policy Working Group White Paper, please visit and follow the LinkedIn page for more updates on dengue Event Partners The co-convenors of the ADVA summit are the following, Topical Medicine and Public Health Networks, Global Dengue Plus Aedes-Transmitted Diseases Consortium, Fondation Meriuex, The International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases, Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Pediatric Society, and the Philippine College of Physicians. About ADVA Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA) is a scientific working group dedicated to dengue vaccine advocacy in Asia, with the aim of disseminating information and making recommendations on dengue vaccine introduction strategies in Asia. The group has formulated recommendations with an ultimate aim of translating the science of dengue vaccination into messages for policy makers, general public and health care workers. For more information, visit View original content: SOURCE Asia Dengue Voice and Action
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
8th Asia Dengue Summit Renews Call to Achieve Zero Dengue Deaths, with a Record 14 million Global Cases Reported in 2024
Health leaders, researchers, and advocates unite to advance efforts against dengue through innovation, prevention, and cross-sector collaboration. MANILA, Philippines, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As dengue cases in 2024 double to over 14 million globally, with Asia accounting for 70% of the global burden in 2024[1], the Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA) Group reinforces the call for stronger policies to strengthen dengue resilience at the 8th Asia Dengue Summit held at the Crowne Plaza Galeria Manila. Themed Toward Zero Dengue Deaths: Science, Strategy, and Solidarity, the summit held from 15 to 18 June 2025 convened over 600 participants from 22 countries, including dengue experts, global health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and advocates. "With dengue cases persistently growing in many parts of the world including the Philippines, this summit delivers a unifying message: Dengue is preventable – and with scientific innovation, the right strategies, and strong community partnerships, achieving Zero Dengue Deaths is achievable. We want to protect lives, eliminate preventable deaths, and put a stop to this global threat," said Dr. Ma. Rosario Z. Capeding, Organizing Chair for the 8th Asia Dengue Summit. Dr. Capeding presented an overview of dengue disease in the Philippines during the first day of the 4-day summit. "While we can learn from the successful campaigns of our neighboring countries through this summit, we can also take this opportunity to share our own experience because we have the expertise and the commitment of our dedicated scientific community. We can share our own achievements in this battle against dengue and be considered as strong partners and powerful allies," said Dr. Fatima I. Gimenez, Organizing Committee Co-Chair Scientific of the summit. The Asia Dengue Summit serves not only as a platform for dialogue among policymakers and advocates, but also as a springboard for lasting partnerships and actions across sectors. ADVA, through the Asia Dengue Policy Working Group (the first under the Asia Dengue Task Force) recently released a white paper titled "Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia." The paper calls for stronger regional coordination and national accountability so that Asia can build more resilient and equitable systems to manage dengue and protect vulnerable populations.[1] Its country recommendation for the Philippines includes strengthening both dengue prevention through vaccination and quality care delivery. Targeted communication and global collaboration can counter misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, while expanding treatment access and ensuring guideline-based care will help save lives, especially in underserved areas.[2] "Government can't do this alone. Every sector has a part to play," added Dr. Gimenez. "The health workers, advocates, the public, and media – we are all in this together. We can turn the tide on dengue." Empowering the next generation of dengue championsBuilding on the success of its inaugural edition, the Dengue Slayers Challenge returns for a second year, continuing ADVA's partnership with Junior Achievement to empower youths in the fight against dengue. This regional competition brings together students from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines, challenging them to develop innovative solutions that address the real-world complexities of dengue prevention and control. This year, 492 teams comprising 1,812 students participated across the five countries. Participants were tasked to prototype or conceptualize technologies aimed at mosquito control or health monitoring – with a strong emphasis on digital innovation, community impact, and environment sustainability. Through this challenge, young minds not only gain exposure to international collaboration and public health issues but also take an active role in shaping the future of dengue response. Top student teams from the five participating countries will showcase their winning solutions at the Asia Pacific Grand Finals, taking place in Manila on 17 June 2025. The event celebrates the creativity, passion, and commitment of these young innovators as they present their solutions on a regional stage. Spotlight on DengCast: Driving Dialogue to raise dengue awarenessAs part of its ongoing commitment to building advocacy and strengthening public engagement, ADVA showcased DengCast – its dedicated podcast platform to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations around dengue. Produced by ADVA:NexGen and available on all major platforms, DengCast features voices from across Asia, including public health experts, community leaders, and researchers, offering regional perspectives and locally driven insights. The podcast will feature dialogue with individuals who have spent their lives making a significant difference in dengue control, as well as those who are on the cutting edge of eliminating this deadly disease. The platform continues to grow and welcomes new contributors to help broaden the conversation and inspire action at all levels of society. ADVA invites stakeholders and experts to be part of future DengCast episodes and join this regional movement to inform, engage, and empower communities in the dengue response. For more information about the 8th Asia Dengue Summit or to access resources on dengue prevention and advocacy, visit or To read the Asia Dengue Policy Working Group White Paper, please visit and follow the LinkedIn page for more updates on dengue Event PartnersThe co-convenors of the ADVA summit are the following, Topical Medicine and Public Health Networks, Global Dengue Plus Aedes-Transmitted Diseases Consortium, Fondation Meriuex, The International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases, Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Pediatric Society, and the Philippine College of Physicians. About ADVAAsia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA) is a scientific working group dedicated to dengue vaccine advocacy in Asia, with the aim of disseminating information and making recommendations on dengue vaccine introduction strategies in Asia. The group has formulated recommendations with an ultimate aim of translating the science of dengue vaccination into messages for policy makers, general public and health care workers. For more information, visit [1] Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia. [2] Unlocking Progress: Dengue Policies and Opportunities in Asia. View original content: SOURCE Asia Dengue Voice and Action Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Memorial Day ceremony in Spanish Fort honors fallen heroes
SPANISH FORT, Ala. (WKRG) — The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs honored fallen service members Monday morning with a ceremony at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort. Mobile County jury awards man $6 million after 2022 tractor trailer crash Attendees recognized the sacrifices of men and women who died defending American liberties. The ceremony featured a wreath-laying, a flag-folding, a moment of silence, a rifle volley, the playing of Taps, and an Honor Guard salute. American flags, placed by local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of America, were on display at all Alabama veterans' graves. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park Executive Director CDR Mark K. Fields, (Ret.) U.S. Navy, delivered the keynote address. ADVA Commissioner Jeff Newton also spoke during the event. 'We are privileged to host this solemn event at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort, a place that symbolizes the service and sacrifice of so many courageous Alabamians,' Newton said. 'Memorial Day is a time for reflection and gratitude, and we thank all Alabamians who honor those who gave their lives for our country's freedom.' Locals, tourists flock to Gulf Shores for Memorial Day getaway The ADVA held the ceremony as part of broader Memorial Day observations taking place across Alabama and the United States. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
