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Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is widely prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia, including Thailand.
There are four main serotypes of the dengue virus: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4.
Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that specific strain; however, individuals can still be infected by other serotypes. Secondary infection may increase the risk of severe disease, such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
Qdenga Vaccine
Qdenga (TAK-003) is a dengue vaccine developed as a live attenuated vaccine, designed to stimulate immunity against all four dengue virus serotypes.
Vaccination schedule:
- Total of 2 doses, administered 3 months apart
Qdenga has been approved for use in several countries, including the European Union and Brazil, and is being introduced in regions with high dengue prevalence in Asia.
The vaccine can be given to both individuals who have previously had dengue infection and those who have never been infected.
Benefits of Dengue Vaccination
- Reduces the risk of dengue infection
- Decreases disease severity and hospitalization rates
- Provides protection against all four dengue virus serotypes
- Suitable for both previously infected and non-infected individuals
- No pre-vaccination blood test for immunity is required
Recommended age group: 4–60 years
Vaccination is an effective preventive measure when combined with mosquito control. Widespread vaccination may help build herd immunity, reducing transmission within communities.
Contraindications and Precautions
Dengue vaccination is not recommended for:
- Individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction to vaccine components
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Immunocompromised individuals, those taking immunosuppressive medications, or cancer patients receiving chemotherapy
- Individuals who have previously had dengue infection should receive the vaccine at least 6 months after full recovery.
