Repurposing a Flu Treatment for Severe Dengue Patients in Colombia
Principal Investigator: Dr. Aileen Chang
Disease: Dengue Fever
Research Description:Dengue viruses (DenV) are among the leading causes of pediatric morbidity and mortality globally, with 96 million symptomatic cases annually worldwide and no targeted treatments. Once infected by DenV, individuals who are symptomatic often experience high fever, muscle and joint pain, and rash. However, some individuals can develop more severe symptoms leading to dengue shock syndrome. Low and lower-middle income countries suffer from DenV infections disproportionately, due to lack of healthcare infrastructure and capacity to manage dengue cases. In mice, Zanamivir, a medication currently FDA approved to treat Influenza A and B, has been shown to decrease vascular leakage caused by DenV, which is the primary cause of death in severe dengue infections. Therefore, Zanamivir may offer a potentially safe and efficacious treatment to improve outcomes for dengue patients. This 74 patient clinical trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of Zanamivir in treating severe dengue infections in Colombia in collaboration with the Universidad el Bosque.
Funding Partners: Anonymous
CWR funding role: Primary funder