Vacina Dengue: Everything You Need to Know About the Dengue Vaccine

What is Dengue and How Does It Spread?

Dengue fever is a viral disease caused by the dengue virus (DENV) and transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue symptoms usually appear 4–10 days after infection and may include:

• High fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
• Severe headaches
• Muscle and joint pain (often called "breakbone fever")
• Skin rash
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain behind the eyes

In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be fatal.

How Dengue Spreads

The virus spreads when an Aedes mosquito bites an infected person and then transmits the virus to another person through its bite. Unlike malaria, dengue-spreading mosquitoes are active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.

Global Rise in Dengue Cases

Due to urbanization, climate change, and increased travel, dengue fever cases have surged globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified dengue as a top 10 global health threat.

What is the Dengue Vaccine?

The dengue vaccine, also known as vacina dengue, is designed to protect against severe dengue infections. It helps the immune system recognize and fight the four strains of the dengue virus.

Types of Dengue Vaccines Available

There are currently two major dengue vaccines approved in various countries:

1. Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) – Developed by Sanofi Pasteur, this was the first dengue vaccine approved. However, it is only recommended for individuals who have had a previous dengue infection.
2. Qdenga (TAK-003) – Developed by Takeda Pharmaceuticals, this vaccine is effective for both people with and without prior dengue exposure.

Who Should Get the Dengue Vaccine?

The vaccine is generally recommended for:

• People living in or traveling to dengue-endemic areas
• Individuals aged 9–45 years (varies by country)
• Those with a history of previous dengue infection (for Dengvaxia)

Effectiveness and Benefits of Dengue Vaccination

How Effective is the Dengue Vaccine?

Clinical trials show that Dengvaxia is about 80% effective in preventing severe dengue in people with prior exposure, while Qdenga has demonstrated similar protection for broader populations.

Key Benefits of the Dengue Vaccine

• Reduces the risk of severe dengue and hospitalizations
• Lowers mortality rates in dengue-endemic regions
• Provides long-term immunity against multiple strains of the virus
• Complements other dengue prevention measures

Who Can and Cannot Take the Dengue Vaccine?

Who Can Take It?

• People living in high-risk dengue areas
• Travelers to dengue-endemic regions
• Individuals with prior dengue infection (for Dengvaxia)

Who Should Avoid the Dengue Vaccine?

• Children under 9 years (varies by country)
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals with no prior dengue exposure (for Dengvaxia)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor)

Possible Side Effects

Like any vaccine, the dengue vaccine may have mild side effects, including:

• Pain or redness at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Headache or fatigue
• Nausea

Severe allergic reactions are rare, but anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling should seek immediate medical help.

Dengue Prevention Beyond Vaccination

While the vacina dengue is a powerful tool, it should be combined with other preventive measures to maximize protection.

Mosquito Control Measures

• Eliminate standing water (mosquitoes breed in stagnant water)
• Use insecticides and larvicides in water storage containers
• Encourage fogging and spraying in high-risk areas

Personal Protection Tips

• Use mosquito repellents containing DEET or picaridin
• Wear protective clothing (long sleeves and pants)
• Sleep under mosquito nets
• Install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out

Community and Public Health Initiatives

Governments and health organizations focus on:

• Mass vaccination campaigns in dengue-endemic regions
• Public awareness programs about mosquito control
• Surveillance and rapid response to dengue outbreaks

Common Myths and Misconceptions About the Dengue Vaccine

"The dengue vaccine gives you dengue."

• False. The vaccine does not contain the live dengue virus. It helps the immune system recognize and fight the virus more effectively.

"If I get the vaccine, I don’t need mosquito protection."

• Incorrect. The vaccine reduces the risk but does not eliminate dengue entirely. Mosquito protection is still necessary.
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"The vaccine is unsafe and ineffective."

• Wrong. Studies show that the dengue vaccine is highly effective, especially for people in dengue-endemic areas.
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The dengue vaccine (vacina dengue) is a critical tool in the fight against dengue fever. While it significantly reduces the severity and hospitalizations, it should be combined with mosquito control and personal protection measures for maximum effectiveness.

What You Can Do Next:

✔️ Check your eligibility for the dengue vaccine with a healthcare provider.
✔️ Stay updated on vaccine availability in your region.
✔️ Continue practicing mosquito protection to reduce exposure.
✔️ Share this information to spread awareness about dengue prevention!

For more information, visit WHO, CDC, or PAHO.