DENGUE VACCINE
By Dr Soo Hui Fang

Dengue remains a common concern for families in Malaysia, especially during periods when dengue cases are increasing. While preventing mosquito bites and eliminating mosquito breeding sites remain important, vaccination can also be considered as an additional way to help protect against dengue.

What Is the Dengue Vaccine?

The dengue vaccine, Qdenga, is a live-attenuated tetravalent vaccine designed to protect against the four dengue virus serotypes.

In Malaysia, Qdenga is registered for individuals aged 4 years of age and above. It is given as 2 doses, with the second dose administered 3 months after the first dose.

Can My Child Get the Dengue Vaccine?

 

 

Not every child is suitable for vaccination.

Before recommending the vaccine, we would consider your child’s age, medical history, previous dengue infection, immune status and overall health.

For example, Qdenga should not be given to individuals with certain immune system problems, those receiving certain immunosuppressive treatments, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

This is why it is important to have a discussion with your doctor before vaccination rather than assuming that the vaccine is suitable for every child.

What If My Child Has Had Dengue Before?

Children who have previously had dengue may still be eligible for Qdenga. According to Malaysia’s NPRA information, Qdenga can be given to individuals aged 4 years and above regardless of whether they have previously been infected with dengue.

Your child’s individual circumstances should still be assessed before vaccination.

How Effective Is It?

Clinical studies involving children and adolescents showed that Qdenga reduced dengue cases and dengue-related hospitalisation compared with placebo. In one major study, there was an approximately 80% reduction in dengue fever cases and a 90% reduction in dengue-related hospitalisation during the specified follow-up periods.

However, it is important to understand that the vaccine does not provide 100% protection against dengue. Mosquito control and preventing mosquito bites remain essential. WHO recommends dengue vaccination as part of a broader dengue prevention strategy.

Is Dengue Vaccination Right for My Child?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

If you are considering dengue vaccination for your child, speak to your doctor about:

• Your child’s age
• Previous dengue infection
• Medical and vaccination history
• Immune system conditions
• Current medications
• Whether your child has any conditions that may make vaccination unsuitable

The goal is not simply to vaccinate everyone, but to determine whether dengue vaccination is appropriate for your child.

A Message from Dr Soo

Dengue prevention involves more than just one measure. Vaccination may provide an additional layer of protection for eligible individuals, but we should continue to reduce mosquito breeding areas and protect children from mosquito bites.

If you are wondering whether your child is suitable for the dengue vaccine, talk to your doctor before making a decision.

Protecting our children starts with understanding their individual needs.

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