Dengue: core competencies in One Health focusing on teamwork, transdisciplinary, and community cooperation

The project titled “Dengue: Core Competencies in One Health Focusing on Teamwork, Transdisciplinary, and Community Cooperation” is among the projects selected for the 2025/2026 One Health Network Funds. Led by Sonia Mara Raboni, the following provides a brief overview of its goals and approach:

Background:

Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, continues to pose a serious health challenge across Latin America, with Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, and Guatemala reporting dramatic increases in cases. Urbanization, climate change, and limited public awareness have intensified outbreaks, exposing gaps in prevention and control. This project responds by promoting a One Health approach that emphasizes collaboration between human, animal, and environmental health sectors. By assessing the competencies and coordination of professionals involved in dengue control, the project aims to build a more effective and integrated response to this ongoing public health threat.

Objectives:

• Evaluate professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the One Health approach to dengue control.
• Identify teamwork challenges and gaps in cross-sectoral collaboration that hinder effective prevention efforts.
• Promote knowledge exchange and regional cooperation through a multi-country workshop focused on community engagement and vector control strategies.
• Develop a framework for integrating community-based solutions into national and regional dengue prevention programs.