Dengue Vaccine
A dengue vaccine is approved for use in children aged 9–16 years with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue virus infection and living in areas where dengue is endemic (occurs frequently or continuously). Endemic areas include some U.S. territories and freely associated states. The vaccine is not approved for use in U.S. travelers who are visiting but not living in an area where dengue is common.
The dengue vaccine is available in Puerto Rico and is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. Most health insurance plans cover routine vaccinations. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program also provides vaccines for children 18 years and younger who are uninsured, underinsured, Medicaid-eligible, American Indian, or Alaska Native.
Sanofi-Pasteur will stop manufacturing its dengue vaccine for children. The manufacturer is discontinuing the vaccine citing a lack of demand in the global market to continue production of this vaccine. CDC, in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Health, will continue alerting health professionals about the discontinuation of Dengvaxia and the use of this vaccine as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Dengvaxia is safe and effective when administered as recommended. There are two other dengue vaccines either approved or in late stages of development. However, they are not currently available in the United States. People can continue to protect themselves and their families from dengue by preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquitoes in and around their homes.
