Dengue Vaccine Recommended for Certain Overseas Populations
Dengue Vaccine Recommended for High-Risk Groups in U.S. Territories
Health Officials Recommend Qdenga Vaccine for Certain Residents of the Caribbean and Indian Ocean
Washington, D.C. – In response to the growing threat of dengue fever in U.S. territories, the haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) has issued a advice for the use of the Qdenga vaccine in specific populations. This comes after a request from the Direction Générale de la Santé for an evaluation of the vaccine’s efficacy and safety.
The HAS, France’s independent public health authority, recommends the Qdenga vaccine for children and adolescents aged 6 and older who have previously contracted dengue fever, and also adults aged 17 to 60 with underlying health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or other chronic illnesses.
“The recommended vaccination schedule consists of two doses of the vaccine, spaced three months apart,” the HAS stated.”The need for a booster dose has not yet been established. The HAS recommends that the vaccination schedule be completed during periods when dengue transmission is low. If a recent dengue infection has occurred,it is recommended to wait six months before administering the first dose of Qdenga.”
While the Qdenga vaccine offers a promising tool in the fight against dengue, health officials emphasize the importance of continued mosquito bite prevention measures.
“Individuals who have been vaccinated with Qdenga should continue to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets,” the HAS advised. “Vector control remains an essential component of dengue prevention programs.”
The HAS’s recommendations are directed towards public health authorities in the affected territories. Individuals interested in learning more about the Qdenga vaccine should consult with their healthcare provider.
dengue Vaccine: A New Weapon in the Fight against dengue Fever
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive Interview with Dr. Anna Sanchez, Infectious Disease Specialist
NewsDirectory3: Dr. Sanchez, the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) recently recommended the use of the qdenga vaccine in certain populations in U.S.territories. Can you tell us more about this decision and what it means for residents of these areas?
Dr. Sanchez: The HAS recommendation is a significant step forward in protecting residents of U.S. territories from the growing threat of dengue fever. Qdenga offers an additional layer of protection, especially for those at highest risk.
NewsDirectory3: Who specifically does the HAS recommend receive this vaccine?
Dr. Sanchez: The recommendation focuses on two groups:
- Children and adolescents aged 6 and older who have already had dengue fever.
- Adults aged 17 to 60 with underlying health conditions that make them more vulnerable to severe dengue, such as obesity, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or other chronic illnesses.
NewsDirectory3: How effective is the Qdenga vaccine,and what is the recommended vaccination schedule?
Dr. Sanchez: Qdenga has shown promising efficacy in clinical trials, but long-term data is still being collected. The recommended schedule is two doses spaced three months apart. Whether booster shots will be needed in the future hasn’t been persistent yet.
NewsDirectory3: Does this mean people who receive the vaccine no longer need to worry about mosquito bites?
Dr. Sanchez: It’s crucial to remember that vaccination is just one part of a comprehensive dengue prevention strategy. Even those who are vaccinated should continue to take precautions against mosquito bites. Using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets are still essential.Vector control measures remain a cornerstone of dengue prevention efforts.