Dengue vaccine is effective

I REFER to the front page headline “50% rise in dengue deaths” (The Star, Jan 6). The sharp increase in dengue incidents and deaths is indeed worrying.

It has been reported that the Dengvaxia dengue vaccine has been approved for use in Mexico, the Philippines and Brazil. Earlier reports also indicate that, while the vaccine has lower effectiveness against serotype II, overall it was effective in reducing severe dengue by around 90% for those aged nine and above. This would mean a potential opportunity to greatly reduce the number of dengue deaths.

How is the approval process progressing in Malaysia, and when can we expect to have the vaccine available here? While not foolproof, the vaccine would appear to at least provide some protection and prevent some deaths.

CONCERNED

Penang