The World Health Organization (WHO) has published the first ever Paediatric Drug Optimization Process (PADO) for dengue, marking a major step to prioritize child-focused dengue treatment development.

The report draws on discussions from the WHO-convened PADO meeting held on 23 October 2025, and outlines research and development priorities and investment needs to accelerate the availability of child-appropriate dengue therapeutics.

“Dengue is a growing threat to children, and silence is not an option. To prevent severe disease and save lives, children need access to safe, appropriate formulations and treatments designed for their needs” noted Dr Daniel Ngamije Madandi, Director of the Department of Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases at WHO.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease and a growing global public health threat, now endemic in more than 100 countries. More than 14 million dengue cases and over 10 000 dengue-related deaths were reported in 2024, around twice the number reported in 2023. Children are heavily affected, and young children are at higher risk of severe outcomes and complications. Yet there are currently no licensed treatments for dengue fever, and supportive care remains the mainstay of clinical management.