India's drug regulator (DCGI) has approved QDENGA, the country's first dengue vaccine. Developed by Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India, the vaccine is approved for individuals aged 4 to 60 years and protects against all four dengue virus serotypes.
Unlike some other options, QDENGA does not require a blood test beforehand to check for a past dengue infection. The vaccine is administered as two 0.5 ml subcutaneous injections given three months apart, and long-term clinical trial data shows that it provides continued protection against dengue infection and hosspitalisation.
QDENGA approval marks a pivotal step in India's efforts to tackle dengue infections at a national level.
