Dengue and Zika Immunology and Genomics Multi-Country Network (DeZi Network)

The unprecedented Zika pandemic and recent increase in dengue cases worldwide present a global challenge. However, the lack of information on dengue (DENV) and Zika (ZIKV) virus co-circulation, particularly in Africa and Asia, undermines effective disease surveillance and control. Building on longstanding experience from the Americas, the Dengue and Zika Immunology and Genomics Multi-Country Network (DeZi Network) leverages existing networks and cohorts to develop enhanced laboratory and computational tools for investigating the past, present, and future spread of DENV and ZIKV in Asia and Africa and the factors influencing their clinical outcomes. We will conduct standardised assessments of novel and commercial serological assays on well-characterised panels from the Americas and Asia and apply these across partner sites in Africa and Asia. We will reconstruct population exposure, describe transmission dynamics, investigate antibody waning to both viruses, and determine current infection and disease risk and circulating virus lineages. Additionally, we will integrate real-time epidemiology and in-country genomic sequencing with antigenic cartography to evaluate the transmissibility and severity of DENV and ZIKV lineages and predict their future spread. Through in-country workshops, regional network hubs, community and stakeholder engagement, we will cultivate local leadership to catalyse collaborative science and help mitigate escalating arboviral threats.