A global research consortium has launched the €11.09 million Dengue Efficacy and Safety Trial in African Region (DENSTAR) project to accelerate the development, evaluation, and regulatory approval of a promising dengue vaccine for sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative, which began on June 1, 2026, aims to address the growing public health concern of this mosquito-borne disease on the continent. The four-year project is coordinated by Italy’s Sclavo Vaccines Association (SVA) and funded by the EU-supported Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking programme.
Addressing a Growing Health Threat
Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, affects millions worldwide annually. While historically prevalent in Asia and Latin America, experts warn that climate change, urbanization, and expanding mosquito habitats are increasing dengue’s risk in Africa. The DENSTAR project directly confronts this challenge by advancing DengiAll, a live-attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine designed to protect against all four dengue virus serotypes.
Researchers intend to fill critical knowledge gaps by evaluating DengiAll’s effectiveness against Dengue Virus Serotype 4 (DENV-4) using Controlled Human Infection Models (CHIMs). This specific focus is crucial as no vaccine has yet demonstrated confirmed protection against DENV-4. The project’s findings are expected to bolster scientific evidence for the vaccine’s safety and efficacy, thereby enhancing public trust in future vaccination efforts.
Vaccine Advantages for Low- and Middle-Income Countries
The DengiAll vaccine presents several advantages that could facilitate its widespread use in low- and middle-income countries. According to the consortium, it requires only a single dose, eliminating the need for prior serological testing. Furthermore, researchers highlight its cost-efficiency in manufacturing and suitability for large-scale deployment and technology transfer.
These characteristics position DengiAll as a potentially practical and equitable solution for broad immunization programs across Africa. This contrasts with some existing dengue vaccines that may have more complex administration requirements or higher costs.
Strengthening Global Partnerships and African Capacity
The DENSTAR consortium unites leading academic institutions, vaccine manufacturers, public health organizations, and research centers from Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America. Professor Donata Medaglini, DENSTAR Coordinator and Chief Scientific Officer of SVA, emphasized the project’s unique collaborative nature.
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