Mexico has approved the first ever anti-dengue vaccine, which protects anyone between the ages of 9-45 from all subtypes of the virus. The vaccine has been named Dengvaxia and it was developed by French Sanofi Pasteur. It took nearly twenty years to develop this vaccine, but it could help save dozens of lives in developing countries.
Anti-Dengue Vaccine Should be Approved Worldwide
Twenty years of extensive research have brought the world a vaccine for a disease that takes the lives of hundreds every year. In 2015 alone, the incidence of dengue has increased exponentially, so this vaccine is just in time to save the day. This could be considered an early Christmas for some.
India and Brazil have suffered significant losses thanks to dengue fever. India has reported 12,000 cases by October 2015 alone, and the number should not increase any more. Half of the world’s population is at risk to get the disease, and if it isn’t treated properly, it can end in death. Dengue affects more than 400 million people in tropical and subtropical climates through Latin America and Asia.
However, the Vaccine is Not Foolproof
Mexican authorities have declared that the vaccine is 60.5% effective against dengue, and 93.2% effective against severe dengue. This solution could help endemic countries bring down dengue deaths greatly. According to the Mexican government, this vaccine can help prevent more than 8,000 hospitalizations, over 100 deaths, and save the country 1.1 billion pesos in medical attention.
Mexico reported 32,100 cases of dengue in 2014, and more than 8,000 were severe. In medical costs and equipment, the authorities reported over 3.2 billion Mexican pesos in expenses, which is about $187 million. However, Mexico isn’t the only country developing a vaccine against the pesky disease. India has stepped up to the plate as well, but its vaccine is still at the animal trial stage. Knowing how reliable Indian medicine is, it’s possible it’s even better than the French-Mexican alternative.
