World's first single-dose dengue vaccine approved for use in Brazil

Brazil has approved Butantan-DV, the world's first single-dose vaccine for dengue fever, targeting isolated Amazon communities. It protects against four strains of the disease and will initially be administered to one million people in January.

Unlike other vaccines requiring multiple doses, Butantan-DV simplifies access in remote areas where healthcare is limited.

In clinical trials, it showed 74.7% overall efficacy and 91.6% for severe cases. The vaccine is crucial for indigenous communities at higher risk due to poor conditions.

Brazil faced a severe dengue outbreak in 2024 with millions of cases reported. Aedes albopictus mosquitoes pose a growing threat in Europe, with cases now appearing in several countries.