"Unlocking Worldwide Dengue Case Counts: A Comprehensive Public Dataset"

In a groundbreaking effort, the OpenDengue database has compiled a vast collection of publicly available dengue case count data from 102 countries spanning nearly a century, making it the most comprehensive dataset of its kind. With over 56 million cases meticulously documented and standardized, the database provides a valuable resource for researchers and public health officials. The dataset, available in various resolutions, allows for in-depth analysis of dengue transmission, disease burden estimation, intervention targeting, and future projections.

Dengue, a global health concern transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses a significant threat to populations worldwide. The expansion of environmental suitability for dengue transmission due to factors like climate change and urbanization is projected to increase the at-risk population in the coming decades. The challenging task of collecting consistent and comparable dengue incidence data has led to the creation of OpenDengue, bridging the gap by aggregating data from various sources in a standardized format.

Previous attempts at creating global dengue databases have faced limitations in terms of coverage, timeliness, and data consistency. OpenDengue aims to address these shortcomings by leveraging digital data collection systems and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic in making infectious disease data publicly accessible. By providing high spatial and temporal resolution data in a machine-readable format, OpenDengue sets a new standard for dengue surveillance and research.

The dataset undergoes rigorous validation processes, including data processing, error checking, and source documentation, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the information. Users can choose from three data extracts based on their research needs, whether focusing on national estimates, spatial analysis, or temporal trends. These extracts offer flexibility and granularity, catering to a wide range of analytical purposes.

Continuous development and version updates of the OpenDengue database are planned to enhance data completeness and resolution further. Contributions from users to fill data gaps and provide feedback are encouraged, fostering collaboration and improving the dataset's quality over time. Researchers and public health officials interested in dengue dynamics, trends, and interventions can leverage the OpenDengue dataset to gain valuable insights and inform evidence-based decision-making.

For more information, visit: [Scientific Data - A global dataset of publicly available dengue case count data](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-024-03120-7).