Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes that causes symptoms ranging from mild to severe. As of October 2024, over 100,000 dengue fever cases have been reported in Malaysia, marking a 14.4% increase compared to last year. Fortunately, a vaccine is now available to protect against dengue.
The first dengue vaccine available in Malaysia, Qdenga, contains weakened versions of the dengue virus serotypes. These versions cannot cause dengue but work like a coach to ‘train’ the body’s immune system to respond to the virus if exposed. The immune system identifies the weakened serotypes as foreign and produces antibodies against them. When a vaccinated individual is later exposed to the virus, their immune system is able to recognise it, rapidly produce antibodies, and neutralise the virus before it can cause illness.
Studies show that dengue vaccination can help reduce cases of dengue fever by 80% and lower hospitalisation rates due to dengue by 90%.
#Based on the ‘FACTS ABOUT DENGUE VACCINE: QDENGA’ provided by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA).
The Qdenga vaccine provides protection against four dengue virus serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. It can be administered to children from 4 years of age, as well as adolescents and adults.
At Beacon Hospital, we offer this vaccine to individuals aged 18 and above.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or adventure-lover, we encourage you to get vaccinated against dengue to protect yourself from the risks of this disease.
Note: Your data (full name, IC/passport number, date of birth, residential postcode, and place of vaccination) will be registered in the Acts2Care registry as per the Ministry of Health (MOH) requirement.
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