In the first seven months of 2024, Laos reported over 8,400 dengue infections and eight deaths, a significant decrease from the 15,851 cases during the same period in 2023. Despite the reduction, the infection rate remains high, particularly in Vientiane, which saw 2,138 cases and three deaths, and Sekong province with 2,045 cases and three deaths. The central and southern provinces, known for their warmer and more humid climates, continue to experience higher infection rates.

Dengue, spread by infected female Aedes mosquitoes, poses a persistent threat, especially during the monsoon season from May to November. Contributing factors include urban population growth, poor sanitation, and ineffective preventive measures, leading to increased mosquito breeding in stagnant water. Efforts to control the spread include spraying insecticides and public health campaigns to educate residents about preventing infections and destroying mosquito breeding sites.

In 2023, a pilot program with Save the Children introduced mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia bacteria to reduce dengue transmission. This natural bacteria makes it difficult for mosquitoes to spread the virus to humans. Although the program’s effects are not immediate, it represents a proactive approach to managing dengue in Laos.