Jaimie Frazer¹, Robert Norton^2
1Pathology Queensland, Townsville, ²University of Queensland

Dengue Virus infection continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality globally. Autochthonous cases have been reported in countries previously considered as less likely suitable for the presence of Dengue, and future climate change may cause further range expansions, potentially increasing the rate of imported cases here. However, Australia has been able to significantly limit local acquisition of Dengue infection due to successful deployment of Wolbachia infected mosquitos. 

Globally, the development and implementation of Dengue vaccines is advocated for population protection. Vaccine use may impact the interpretation of serologic tests for Dengue Virus infection.  Interpreting serology is already complex due to cross-reactivity with other circulating flaviviruses and the potential for previous infections with different serotypes.  In addition to this, confirming a history of Dengue infection is important when considering vaccine use at an individual and population level.

Diagnostic methods for diagnostic laboratory use and potential future advances will be reviewed in the above context.