What is the Dengue Vaccine Used for?

Dengue is spread by bites from an infected mosquito. Dengue is not contagious and does not spread directly from person to person.

Symptoms of dengue include fever, severe headache with pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, rashes, bleeding from the nose or gums, or easily bruised skin. A small number of people will have severe dengue disease, which is a medical emergency, as there may be signs of shock, severe bleeding, organ damage, or death.

Dengue vaccines help protect against dengue disease caused by four strains (serotypes 1,2,3,4) of the dengue virus. However, it does not fully protect all individuals against dengue infection, individuals should still continue personal protection measures against mosquito bites.

Who Should Receive the Dengue Vaccine?

The dengue vaccine is only recommended for individuals 12 to 45 years old who had a previous documented dengue infection.

It is not recommended for individuals who have no previous dengue infection as they are at an increased risk of having severe dengue, should they become infected subsequently with the dengue virus. A blood test is recommended to determine their past infection status, prior to receiving the vaccine.

What Precautions Should I Follow Before Receiving the Dengue Vaccine?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this vaccine, any of the other ingredients of this vaccine, or natural rubber latex

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

• You have recently (within the last 3 months) received a blood or plasma transfusion, or treatment with immunoglobulins (a type of antibodies)

• You are currently not feeling well and having a fever

• You have a weak immune system due to an illness such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection

• You are currently on chemotherapy (for cancer) or medications which weaken your immune system (e.g. high dose steroids)

• You have recently received any other vaccine

How Is The Dengue Vaccine Given?

It is given by injection just underneath the skin (subcutaneous route).

It is given as a series of three doses, usually with each dose given 6 months apart. The first dose of the vaccine should be given at least 6 months after the episode of dengue infection.

What Are Some Common Side-Effects Of The Dengue Vaccine?

• Some people may feel dizzy after the vaccination

  • Sit for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine to avoid dizziness 

• Pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site 

  • You may place a cold compress over the affected area for relief

  • You may take paracetamol for pain relief 

• Headache, muscle ache, fever

  • You may take paracetamol for pain relief

• Fatigue

  • These side effects usually go away on its own

These side effects are generally mild and may last for up to 3 days, except for fever that may occur within 14 days after the injection. Please see a doctor if these side effects do not get better or become worse. 

What Are Some Rare But Serious Side-Effects That I Need To Seek Medical Advice Immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

• Difficulty in breathing

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare professional immediately.

Disclaimers

The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Oct 2022