Dengue surges, vaccines lag

Public concern: The Klang Valley is among the states that recorded an increase in dengue cases, though intensive and targeted preventive and control measures have since begun to show positive results, according to the Health Ministry. — AZMAN GHANI/The Star

PETALING JAYA: Dengue infections have surged 56.2% nationwide this year with 58,079 cases and 55 deaths recorded so far, but take-up of dengue vaccines remains low due to cost and lack of awareness, say stakeholders.

Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations, Malay­sia president Dr Shanmuganathan TV Ganeson said cost is one factor behind the low vaccine take-up rate.