Vietnam has launched its first nationwide vaccination campaign against dengue fever, utilizing the Qdenga vaccine developed by Takeda Pharmaceutical. The program, initiated by Vietnam Vaccine Joint Stock Company (VNVC), aims to protect individuals aged four and older from all four serotypes of the dengue virus (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4). This effort marks a significant step in combating the disease, which has seen a dramatic increase in cases globally.
The vaccination drive is underway at approximately 200 VNVC inoculation centers across the country. Dr. Bach Thi Chinh, medical director of VNVC, noted that Qdenga has been in development for nearly 45 years and has been used in over 40 countries, particularly those with frequent dengue epidemics. The Ministry of Health in Vietnam approved Qdenga for circulation in May 2024.
Efficacy and Impact of Qdenga
The Qdenga vaccine has demonstrated an efficacy of up to 80% in protecting against all four dengue virus types. More importantly, it reduces the risk of hospitalization by up to 90%. This is particularly crucial in Vietnam, where a significant portion of the population has been infected with dengue fever at least once. Subsequent infections tend to be more severe, making timely vaccination a vital preventive measure.
Vu Thi Thu Ha, supply chain director of VNVC, highlighted the company's early engagement with Takeda to secure a substantial supply of the vaccine, emphasizing the commitment to reducing the annual burden of dengue fever. Numerous companies have already contacted VNVC to arrange vaccinations for their employees, priced at VND1,390,000 (US$56.5) per dose.
Dengue Fever in Vietnam and Globally
Dengue fever is transmitted through mosquito bites, and while mosquito control remains essential, vaccination offers an additional layer of protection. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies dengue as one of the top 10 global health threats, with cases increasing tenfold from 500,000 in 2000 to over five million in 2019.
Vietnam has experienced dengue fever peaks approximately every 10 years between 1980 and 2018. However, the period from 2019 to 2023 saw two epidemic peaks in 2019 and 2022. In 2022, Vietnam reported over 367,000 dengue cases, second only to Brazil globally. WHO estimates about 390 million dengue infections occur worldwide annually, with 96 million symptomatic cases, 500,000 hospitalizations, and 40,000 deaths.
Vulnerable Populations and Treatment
Anyone can contract dengue fever, but children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases or obesity are at higher risk. Untreated dengue can lead to severe complications, including hypotension, heart failure, kidney failure, hemorrhagic shock, multiple organ failure, cerebral hemorrhage, and coma. Currently, treatment focuses on managing symptoms through blood filtration, plasma exchange, and anti-shock measures. The cost of treating a severe case can reach hundreds of millions of Vietnamese dong.
