UVM team, local volunteers contribute to dengue vaccine breakthrough – WCAX

Development and Approval of the World’s First Single-Dose Dengue Vaccine

Introduction

Researchers in Vermont have played a pivotal role in developing the world’s first single-dose vaccine aimed at preventing dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease. This vaccine has recently received official approval, marking a significant milestone in global health efforts aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

Global Impact of Dengue Fever

• Annually, more than 100 million cases of dengue fever are reported worldwide.
• Approximately 40% of the global population is at risk of contracting the disease.

Research and Development Efforts

1. Since 2009, University of Vermont (UVM) researchers have been dedicated to developing a safe and effective dengue vaccine.
2. Their work emphasizes rigorous testing to ensure vaccine safety and efficacy.

Community Involvement and Clinical Trials

Dr. Beth Kirkpatrick, founder of the UVM Vaccine Testing Center, highlighted the critical role of the greater Burlington community in supporting clinical trials. Healthy volunteers from the local area have participated over 16 years, demonstrating community commitment to advancing preventive healthcare measures.

Additional Contributions to Dengue Prevention

• UVM researchers are also significantly involved in the development of a promising new antiviral medication.
• This medication is designed to prevent dengue infection and reduce illness severity, further supporting SDG 3 objectives.

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts of UVM researchers and the Burlington community exemplify progress towards sustainable health solutions. These advancements contribute directly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by reducing the burden of infectious diseases and promoting global health equity.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article focuses on the development of a vaccine to prevent dengue fever, a major global health issue.
   • It highlights efforts to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases and improve health outcomes worldwide.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • The article mentions research and development activities by UVM researchers, emphasizing innovation in medical science.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The article references collaboration between researchers and the local community, indicating partnerships to achieve health goals.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.3: By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases.
   • Target 3.b: Support the research and development of vaccines and medicines for the communicable and non-communicable diseases that primarily affect developing countries.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors, including encouraging innovation and research.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. For SDG 3 Targets:
   • Indicator 3.3.1: Number of new cases of dengue fever reported annually (implied by the mention of “more than 100 million cases annually”).
   • Indicator 3.b.1: Proportion of the population with access to vaccines against dengue fever (implied by the approval and availability of the single-dose vaccine).
2. For SDG 9 Targets:
   • Indicator 9.5.1: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP (implied by the long-term research efforts since 2009).
   • Indicator 9.5.2: Number of researchers per million inhabitants (implied by the involvement of UVM researchers).
3. For SDG 17 Targets:
   • Indicator 17.16.1: Number of multi-stakeholder partnerships for sustainable development (implied by the collaboration between researchers and community volunteers).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: wcax.com