The Minister of Health of Brazil, Nísia Trindade, stated that the dengue vaccine offers hope amidst the surge in cases of the disease in the country. However, she emphasized that it is not the sole solution to the current epidemiological situation due to the limited quantity of the vaccine provided by the manufacturing laboratory. Approximately six million doses are available, sufficient to vaccinate three million people, considering that the complete vaccination schedule consists of two doses.
“The vaccine is our instrument of hope in relation to a public health problem that is almost 40 years old. Finally, we have a vaccine that we should celebrate. However, due to the limited quantity being delivered by the laboratory and the fact that it requires two doses, it cannot be seen as a solution for the current situation,” she noted.
Controlling outbreaks
“Right now, our primary focus is on controlling the outbreaks and providing care for those afflicted with dengue. These are our immediate measures. Vaccination will adhere to the priority criteria that we have defined with states and municipalities, and extensively publicized, with a focus on a specific segment of the population. While the elderly are the most vulnerable group, we do not have an authorized vaccine for this segment of the population. This is why I emphasize: the vaccine is one tool among many, and currently, it is not the most impactful,” concluded the minister.
Best ways to combat Dengue
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to combat dengue is avoiding the mosquito bites. How? Using insect repellent, dressing in clothing that covers arms and legs and covering strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting. Also, taking steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoor, using screens on windows and doors, repairing holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors, using air conditioning, if available, and stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers.
Source: Agência Brasil and CDC