India Approves First Dengue Vaccine for People Aged 4–60 in Major Public Health Breakthrough

Photo: Collected

Staff Correspondent : India has approved its first-ever dengue vaccine, marking a significant milestone in the country's fight against one of its fastest-growing mosquito-borne diseases. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted market authorization to QDENGA (TAK-003), developed by Japanese pharmaceutical company Takeda, for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years. 

QDENGA is designed to protect against all four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4). Unlike some earlier dengue vaccines, it can be administered regardless of whether a person has previously been infected with dengue, eliminating the need for pre-vaccination screening. The vaccine is given in two doses, administered three months apart. 

Clinical trial data showed that QDENGA demonstrated 80.2% efficacy against confirmed dengue infections one year after the second dose and 90.4% efficacy in preventing dengue-related hospitalizations after 18 months, offering strong protection against severe disease. 

Takeda said the vaccine has already been approved in more than 40 countries and expects it to become available in India through the private healthcare sector during the first half of 2027. The company is also working with Indian vaccine manufacturer Biological E to expand production capacity. 

Health experts welcomed the approval, describing it as a major advance in dengue prevention. However, they emphasized that vaccination should complement—not replace—traditional mosquito control measures, including eliminating stagnant water, using insect repellents, and maintaining public awareness. 

India has witnessed a sharp rise in dengue cases over the past two decades, underscoring the urgent need for effective preventive measures. Authorities believe the introduction of QDENGA could significantly reduce severe illness, hospitalizations, and the overall burden of dengue across the country.