New Dengue Vaccine

Recently, Sanofi got approval by the FDA to commercialize its Dengue Vaccine called Dengvaxia. This vaccine protects patients from the 4 existing serotypes of the disease. Although it was already approved in Europe, FDA approval brings it closer to the endemic regions in Latin America, where it is most needed. Indications are for patients aged 9 to 16, who live in endemic regions and have already been infected once. The FDA panel assessed the vaccine´s safety and effectiveness and determined that this patient population is best suited for the vaccine.

Dengvaxia caused polemic after 10 children deaths reported in the Philippines were linked to the vaccine. This has resulted in legal charges against the people involved with its approval at this country. Caution must be taken with these new medicinal products. 

Right now, there are 400 million cases of Dengue worldwide. There is currently no cure for Dengue, its treatment consists mainly in controlling symptoms. But even with this control, an estimated 20,000 people die from complications. A vaccine that helps prevent the stronger effects of the disease, which are presented the second time you are infected, is a great advance towards solving this public health treat.

References:

https://www.genengnews.com/news/fda-approves-sanofis-dengue-prevention-vaccine-dengvaxia-in-narrower-patient-population/