Beyond Emergency: Intersectoral Strategies for Sustainable Dengue Control in the Federal District of Brazil ^†

Introduction: In 2024, the Federal District of Brazil faced one of its most severe dengue outbreaks, with record cases and deaths. The crisis exposed structural challenges in control, especially in densely populated areas with high vulnerability. This study analyzes the main actions taken by the Government of the Federal District (GDF) in response. Methodology: Qualitative study based on documentary analysis, including decrees, epidemiological bulletins, and reports from the Secretariat of Health, Secretariat of Communication, Urban Cleaning Service, Regional Administrations, and the SES-DF Social Mobilization Unit. Results: The GDF created an Executive Task Force for Arbovirus Response, hired community health agents, and expanded care capacity with a field hospital and tents. Environmental measures included Papa Entulho (Debris Removal), DF Livre de Carcaças (Junk Vehicle Removal), sealing of bus shelters, and storm drain cleaning. Other initiatives encompassed fumigation (fumacê), vaccination of children and adolescents, clean-up drives, the “D-Day Against Dengue,” and educational campaigns. These measures coincided with a decline in dengue cases by late 2024, a period when seasonal reduction was also expected. Importantly, unlike in 2023, when incidence rose again with the seasonal cycle starting in October, no comparable resurgence was recorded, suggesting that government actions helped sustain control. Conclusions: Intersectoral coordination strengthened the GDF’s response capacity. Although the decline may partly reflect seasonal dynamics, the measures likely contributed not only to reducing the outbreak’s intensity and burden, but also to preventing resurgence in late 2024. Embedding such actions in permanent policies enhances prevention, health outcomes, and economic efficiency.