Dozens die as dengue surges in Malaysia while vaccine uptake stalls

Dengue infections in Malaysia have jumped 56.2 percent this year, with 58,079 cases and 55 fatalities so far, despite low uptake of the dengue vaccine. Dr Shanmuganathan TV Ganeson, president of the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations, Malaysia, blamed cost as a key factor in the vaccine’s low uptake. A two-dose regimen can range from 420 to 500 ringgit (US$104 to US$124), depending on the facility, with general practitioner clinics generally offering cheaper prices.

The dengue vaccine must compete with more affordable alternatives, such as the flu vaccine, which costs less than 100 ringgit. Only those aged between four and 60 can receive the vaccine, and it cannot be administered to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or immunocompromised patients. Dengue Prevention Advocacy Malaysia co-chairman Professor Zamberi Sekawi noted some hesitancy, but warned against interpreting low uptake as anti-vaccine sentiment.

He emphasized the need for better public education and healthcare professionals who are confident enough to have personalized conversations about dengue prevention and vaccination. The Health Ministry has not yet planned to include the vaccine in the National Immunisation Programme. High-risk regions initially experienced the surge, particularly the Klang Valley region, including Selangor state, as well as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.

The northern state of Perlis saw the highest percentage increase at 207 percent, followed by Johor at 109 percent and Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at 106 percent. Other states, including Sabah, experienced a 34 percent rise, while Penang, Melaka, and Kedah recorded reductions in cases.