Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by daytime-biting Aedes mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It causes a range of symptoms from a mild fever to severe joint and muscle pain, and a small proportion of cases develop into a life-threatening form known as severe dengue. There is no specific antiviral treatment, making prevention through mosquito bite avoidance and, where eligible, vaccination the key approach.
A vaccine for dengue is now available in the UK (Qdenga). However, its use is carefully restricted: it is licensed for adults aged 18 to 60 who can confirm they have previously had dengue, based on a positive blood test or clinical diagnosis. Administering the vaccine to someone with no prior dengue infection is not recommended, as it may paradoxically increase the risk of severe disease on a subsequent natural infection.
If you have had dengue before and are travelling frequently to endemic regions, speak to our pharmacist to find out whether you are a suitable candidate. Because the course requires three doses spread over 12 months, it is a longer term commitment. Call us on 0161 437 2634 for a travel consultation to discuss your individual eligibility.
When you need this vaccine
- Adults aged 18 to 60 with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue infection travelling to dengue-endemic areas
- Travel to tropical and subtropical regions of South and South-East Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa
- Frequent travellers to endemic destinations who have documented prior dengue exposure
- Not recommended for people with no prior dengue infection, as the vaccine may increase risk of severe dengue in seronegative individuals
Schedule
- Three doses given by subcutaneous injection at 0, 6, and 12 months.
- All three doses are needed to complete the course and achieve the best protection.
- The vaccine (Qdenga) requires seropositive status to be confirmed before administration.
- Plan at least 12 months ahead if the full 3-dose course is needed before a future trip.