Dengue vaccine – a proactive solution to reduce the risk of infection by 80.2%

Dengue fever cases are on the rise in Hanoi, with the risk of a major outbreak expected in October and November. The disease progresses rapidly and can lead to severe complications or even death, while no specific treatment is currently available. Vaccination against dengue fever is a proactive and effective preventive measure, helping to reduce the risk of infection and hospitalization.

3 common misconceptions about dengue fever

According to the Department of Preventive Medicine (Ministry of Health), as of July 19th, 2025, Vietnam had recorded 38,222 cases of dengue fever. Between July 12 and 19 alone, the number of cases increased by 27.9% compared to the previous week. The outbreak is projected to peak in October and November, as unpredictable weather conditions create a favorable environment for the rapid breeding of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

Although the number of cases is rising rapidly, many people remain complacent, leading to dangerous misconceptions. Below are three important facts about dengue fever that everyone should be aware of:

A person can contract dengue fever up to four times in their lifetime.

The dengue virus has four distinct serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4). Infection with one serotype provides immunity only against that specific type and does not protect against the others. More concerning, subsequent infections are often more severe than the first, increasing the risk of internal bleeding, dengue shock, multiple organ failure, and even death.

Anyone can contract the disease, with certain high-risk groups more vulnerable.

Dengue fever can affect people of all ages and in all areas, from urban to rural, as long as they are bitten by Aedes mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus. However, some groups are at higher risk of developing severe complications, including: Young children, especially under 4 years old; Older adults; Pregnant women; Individuals with underlying conditions (such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, COPD); People with weakened immune systems.

There is currently no specific treatment for dengue fever. The disease progresses rapidly through four stages:

• Incubation: 3–15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito
• Febrile phase: 1–3 days of high fever
• Critical phase: Days 3–7, when severe complications are most likely to occur
• Recovery phase: From day 8 onward, if the patient receives proper treatment

At present, there is no specific medication to treat the dengue virus. Management primarily focuses on fluid replacement, fever control, and close monitoring for complications. This means patients are always at risk of sudden and unpredictable disease progression.

Why is dengue vaccination necessary?

Preventive measures such as mosquito control, environmental sanitation, and sleeping under nets are important but cannot provide absolute protection, since Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can breed in even the smallest pools of water. Dengue vaccination with Qdenga is currently considered the most proactive and effective solution, helping to reduce the risk of infection by up to 80.2% and the risk of hospitalization and severe complications by 90.4%.

The Ministry of Health recommends dengue vaccination with Qdenga for children from 4 years of age, administered in two doses three months apart, with no booster required. Individuals who have previously had dengue fever are advised to receive the vaccine at least six months after recovery to help prevent reinfection and complications.

Dengue Vaccination at Hong Ngoc Vaccination Center 

Hong Ngoc Vaccination Center has introduced the Qdenga dengue vaccine with several key advantages:

• Safety: Examinations and prescriptions are carried out directly by specialists; an integrated healthcare ecosystem with a general hospital ensures readiness to manage any post-vaccination reactions.

• Quality: Genuine imported vaccines stored in compliance with GSP standards
• Convenience: Seven vaccination centers across Hanoi, streamlined procedures, and appointment reminders on schedule

Register for vaccination today to protect yourself and your family ahead of the dengue season.