The Dengue Strategic Plan for the Asia Pacific Region, 2008-2015
Summary
The Dengue Strategic Plan for the Asia Pacific Region (2008–2015) has been prepared in response to the increasing threat from dengue. Among an estimated 2.5 billion people at risk globally, about 1.8 billion (more than 70%) reside in the Asia Pacific Region. Development of this Strategic Plan is also important to meet the requirements of the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005. The goal is to reverse the rising trend of dengue in the countries in the Region.
Countries in the Region vary in terms of their preparedness, their capacity to respond and in the allocation of financial resources in the prevention and control of dengue. The Strategic Plan provides generic recommendations to allow its local adaptation.
Dengue does not respect international boundaries. Effective dengue control is not possible if control efforts are limited to one country or a few countries. It requires the adoption of a regional approach through collaboration among countries and sustained partnerships to enable countries to implement evidence-based interventions and the use of best practices.
The Dengue Strategic Plan for the Asia Pacific Region will assist countries to enhance their outbreak preparedness and response, and limit dengue epidemics through effective prevention and control. The Strategic Plan should be implemented in harmony with the Strategic Framework for the Asia Pacific Dengue Partnership (APDP).
A key component of the Dengue Strategic Plan for the Asia Pacific Region is the Log Frame, which can be used as a road map to develop or improve upon existing national operational plans; to build capacity and strengthen health systems; to establish networking; to harmonize with the APDP strategic framework for mobilization of resources; to sustain ongoing information exchange; and to advocate for prevention and control of dengue. It should also assist in increasing access to innovation, including tools for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dengue.