In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Saudi Society of Clinical Microbiology organized a workshop on dengue virus infection. Various healthcare companies including Sanofi Pasteur supported the workshop, which addressed the needs of healthcare professionals, particularly physicians, and clinical microbiologists, researchers and pharmacists specialized in infectious diseases in the field of dengue fever. "It is important for the scientific community to understand the methods of the treatment and management of dengue virus in the region and educate the medical staff and the public about the risk factors," said Dr. Nezar Bahabri, head of the Saudi Society for Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. "Adopting effective infection control measures and a strong strategic plan for prevention the Dengue infection is part of the dengue working group's objectives," he added. Dr. Naeema Akbar, consultant in preventive medicine, said, "There are various factors that contribute to the increase of dengue cases and its conceivable reemergence. These include an increase of breeding sites for vectors, continual population growth, uncontrolled urbanization, poverty, inadequate environmental management, change of climate and alteration of geographical distribution of pathogens and vectors. Dengue incidence is higher among males at 75 percent, compared to 25 percent among females. The vast majority of cases are among laborers. On the management of dengue outbreaks in the country, Dr. Rajaa Mohammad Al-Raddadi, consultant in preventive medicine and vice president of Saudi Epidemiology Association, said two studies would shed light on the spread of dengue fever in Saudi Arabia — "Dengue Fever Seroprevalence" and "The Economic Burden of Dengue Fever ". The findings of the two studies are expected to be published this year. On the other hand, dengue vaccines have been submitted for registration in 26 countries, but only 11 have have granted the license so far, he said. — SG
