An internationally approved dengue vaccine could significantly reduce the spread and severity of dengue in Sri Lanka, according to Dr. Lakkumar Fernando, Founder and Clinical Director of the Negombo Dengue and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Clinical Management Centre.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Dr. Fernando said he had also contributed to the research and development of the vaccine and welcomed plans to introduce it in Sri Lanka.
His remarks follow a recent statement by Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, who said the government is exploring the introduction of the internationally approved dengue vaccine, which is currently being used in around 41 countries.
The government is also considering introducing the scientifically proven Wolbachia mosquito control method as part of its dengue prevention strategy.
Dr. Fernando emphasized that vaccination alone would not eliminate dengue but said it could play a major role in reducing the disease’s impact.
“The vaccine alone cannot completely eliminate dengue. However, it is an effective tool that can significantly reduce the burden and disruption caused by the disease,” he said.
The vaccine, known as TAK-003 (Qdenga), has demonstrated more than 90 percent effectiveness against the DENV-2 strain of the dengue virus, which is believed to account for around 80 percent of the current dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka.
Dr. Fernando noted that all four dengue virus serotypes have been identified in Sri Lanka, with DENV-2 being the most prevalent. He said the vaccine offers strong protection against DENV-2 while also providing protection against the other dengue virus strains.
According to Dr. Fernando, the introduction of the vaccine could help reduce the severity of outbreaks, lower the number of infections, and ease the growing pressure on the country’s healthcare system.
Source: Daily Mirror
