The first-ever maps of global vulnerability to dengue, a mosquito-borne tropical virus that produces a painful condition of body joints sometimes referred to as "breakbone fever," were published by UN University's Canadian-based Institute for Water, Environment and Health.

Access to safe and affordable water is considered to be a basic human right, yet the universal reality does not reflect this principle. A lack of adequate capacity and financing, and national policies which often rely on unsustainable use of water resources, prevent effective and sustainable provision of safe water and sanitation.