The vaccine is reportedly best suited for those who have had dengue infections before as it would act as a “booster shot”.
Back in 2005 and 2013 when the early cases of dengue broke out in Singapore, the government tackled the epidemic promptly, which received commendation from the UN. We have seen the various campaigns like “Do the Mozzie Wipeout” or the “5 steps to rid of Dengue”. Dengue rates are currently at an all-time low with fewer than 600 people infected since last year, but it still remains a persistent and deadly issue.
Which is why this piece of news strikes so close to our hearts. The first dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, will be available in Singapore from this week onwards. It is approved for use for patients from 12-45 years old and was first discovered and released by the World Health Organisation in October last year.
Dengvaxia’s effectiveness
There are a total of 4 dengue strains. Dengvaxia is the first vaccine that is able to tackle all 4 strains — despite varying levels of effectiveness. According to studies, the vaccine is effective at reducing dengue by 60% and reducing severe cases by 84%. It is less effective however, for the 2 other dengue strains which are more widely found in Singapore.
The decision made by Health Science Authority Singapore to launch the vaccine in Singapore was based on 24 clinical studies that involved 41,000 people. According to the World Health Organisation, it provides 72-77% protection against Den 1 and 2 but only 43-55% against Den 3 and 4.
Dengvaxia has been proven to be a lifesaver in the Philippines. It is part of a $98 million state-sponsored immunisation programme that was introduced in April last year. It has been introduced to Mexico and Brazil as well.
For whom and how much would it cost
The vaccine is reportedly best suited for those who have had dengue infections before as it would act as a “booster shot”. This is especially since ex-dengue victims have a 30% higher chance of getting infected again.
Dengvaxia is less effective for young children and the elderly as well —- which explains the recommended prescription to 12-45 years old. This is due to elderly people having lower anti-body response to vaccines in general.
The vaccine will not be part of any National Vaccine campaign, meaning that it will not be subsidised and Medisave cannot be used as it would not be “clinically and cost-effective”.
The dosage for Dengvaxia spreads over a span of 1.5 years, with one shot every 6 months.
