Epidemiological profile of dengue in Brazil from 2016 to 2024 and future perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue is a major viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, affecting global public health, with Brazil being one of the most impacted countries. This study describes the epidemiological profile of dengue in Brazil from 2016 to 2024, exploring regional variations, age groups, and educational levels among cases. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study that uses data extracted from the Health Information System tabulations provided on the Department of Informatics from the Sistema Único de Saúde. The variables considered include year and region of notification, case progression, age group, and educational level. Data were analyzed and presented through charts created with Microsoft Excel software. Results: Findings show a significant increase in dengue case notifications in Brazil, with the lowest rate recorded in 2017 and the highest in 2024. The North Region showed the lowest notification rate, while the Southeast had the highest. All educational strata in the North Region presented fewer cases compared to other regions, with the highest incidence among individuals aged 20 to 39 years. Discussion: The decrease in notifications during the Covid-19 pandemic suggests underreporting, possibly due to lower demand for health services and cross-reactions in diagnostic tests. The high incidence in the Southeast Region and the growing evolution of the disease highlight the need to intensify control actions, especially in densely populated urban areas. Underreporting in the North Region may reflect barriers to accessing health services, while the introduction of the dengue vaccine in the SUS in 2024 represents progress in immunization efforts. Conclusion: The continuation of prevention actions, along with adequate treatment, is essential to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with dengue.