Vietnam’s health sector is stepping up to the growing threat of climate change with an innovative digital tool that predicts dengue outbreaks before they occur. The E-Dengue project, developed with leadership from Griffith University’s Centre for Environment and Population Health (CEPH), was recently featured on Vietnam’s international television channel, VTV4.
Vietnam is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, where rising temperatures, heavier rainfall and frequent natural disasters are reshaping disease patterns. “For every one-degree increase in temperature, we see a measurable rise in hospitalisations, particularly from dengue and heat-related illnesses,” said Professor Cordia Chu, Director of CEPH.
“The health sector must move from reacting to crises to predicting and preventing them.”
The E-Dengue system does exactly that. By integrating climate, environmental and epidemiological data, it can forecast dengue outbreaks at the district level up to three months in advance. Accessible via mobile and web platforms, the tool provides real-time risk maps, alerts, and prevention guidance tailored for frontline health workers.
Photo: E-Dengue tool – a digital innovation for Dengue prediction and prevention.
“What makes E-Dengue unique is its collaborative design,” Prof Chu explained. “We worked closely with Vietnamese health authorities to ensure the system responds directly to their needs and can be integrated seamlessly into existing surveillance and control programs.”
The VTV4 feature highlighted the shift toward a proactive dengue prevention strategy grounded in data, prevention, and early action across the Mekong Delta. Local health officials described the tool as “a game changer” in helping them prepare communities before outbreaks escalate.
CEPH’s work is also contributing to broader resilience. By fostering partnerships between government agencies, research institutions and international experts, the project is laying the foundations for a climate-responsive health system.
“The E-Dengue project is not just a technological innovation, it’s a model for how science, digital tools and local engagement can come together to protect vulnerable populations in a warming world.”
📺 Watch the full VTV4 segment here: (in Vietnamese with English subtitles).
For more information about the project visit: https://blogs.griffith.edu.au/asiainsights/vietnams-health-sector-innovates-to-tackle-climate-change-the-e-dengue-project/
