WHO Releases First-Ever Guidelines for Paediatric Dengue Treatment and Clinical Care - Video

As dengue cases continue to rise worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever guidance focused on developing dengue treatments specifically for children. The new recommendations aim to accelerate research into safe, effective, and child-friendly medicines for one of the world's fastest-growing mosquito-borne diseases.

According to WHO, more than 14 million dengue cases and over 10,000 related deaths were reported globally in 2024. Children, particularly younger ones, are at greater risk of developing severe dengue and life-threatening complications. Despite the growing burden, there are currently no approved antiviral medicines specifically designed to treat dengue.

The new guidance is based on WHO's first Paediatric Drug Optimization Process (PADO) for dengue, which identifies the most promising treatment candidates for children and outlines research priorities to speed up the development of pediatric therapies.

A major focus of the guidance is ensuring that children are included from the earliest stages of drug development rather than adapting adult medicines later. WHO says children require different doses, formulations, and treatment approaches, making pediatric-specific research essential. The organization is also encouraging the development of child-friendly medicines, such as liquid formulations and dispersible tablets that are easier for young children to take.

The report further calls for greater investment and collaboration among governments, researchers, pharmaceutical companies, funding agencies, and regulatory authorities to advance dengue therapeutics. Researchers are being urged to prioritize antiviral drugs that could reduce disease severity and prevent serious complications.

WHO emphasizes that early diagnosis and supportive medical care remain the only available treatment for dengue until effective antiviral therapies become available. By providing a clear roadmap for pediatric drug development, the agency hopes to accelerate the arrival of safe and effective dengue treatments that can better protect children living in dengue-endemic regions.

REFERENCE: WHO issues first ever guidance to advance child-focused dengue treatments; Paediatric drug optimization for dengue: meeting report, 23 October 2025; https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240121409