Butantan Institute Develops New System for Naming Dengue Virus Strains

A groundbreaking study led by the Butantan Institute, in collaboration with international universities, has introduced a new system for naming dengue virus strains. This initiative aims to improve global monitoring of viral mutations and enhance communication among laboratories and public health authorities worldwide.

Published in PLOS Biology, the research involved institutions such as Fiocruz, Yale, and Oxford. The new classification system has been in use since September 2024 and is expected to become a global standard.

What’s Changing

The dengue virus has four serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4), each with genetic variations known as genotypes, 17 in total until now.

The new system adds two additional classification levels: major and minor lineages. This allows for more precise identification of mutations and better tracking of the virus’s spread across regions and countries.

Why It Matters

Standardizing the naming of dengue virus strains supports genomic surveillance, enabling faster detection of mutations that could affect vaccine effectiveness. According to Butantan, continuous monitoring of these lineages provides a scientific foundation for improving future vaccine formulations and public health responses.

Current Dengue Situation

Dengue is becoming a growing concern worldwide. In 2024, over 13 million suspected cases were reported across the Americas, marking the highest number since records began in 1980. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported over 7.6 million cases by April 2024, including more than 16,000 severe cases and over 3,000 deaths.

The disease, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, continues to threaten more than 100 million people annually across tropical and subtropical regions.

The Role of Sustainable Solutions

Advancements like the new classification system reinforce the importance of scientific research, continuous surveillance, and sustainable mosquito control strategies. One example is Aedes Mosquito Killers, which offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional insecticides. These biodegradable traps attract and capture female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes before they can lay eggs, helping to reduce mosquito populations and prevent outbreaks.