Dengue cases jump 60.8pc as MOH weighs vaccine rollout due to high cost

The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Malaysia is currently evaluating the introduction of a dengue vaccine into the National Immunisation Programme (NIP), reported to have seen a 60.8% increase in cases since August 2025. The high cost of the vaccine is the primary concern in the decision-making process, with the ministry conducting a cost-benefit analysis before finalising its stance.

Currently, over 61,000 dengue cases have been reported nationwide in the current epidemiological week, resulting in 58 deaths. In response to the surge in cases, the MOH has activated a dengue operations room, deployed personnel to hotspots, and increased the use of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes as a biological control method. The ministry's efforts to combat dengue are collaborative, requiring the cooperation of local authorities and related agencies.

Additionally, the health ministry is reviewing proposals to expand basic dental screening and treatment into the PeKa B40 scheme, aiming to implement changes if approved soon. The recent opening of the Negeri Sembilan Dental Specialist Centre (PPPNS), a first-of-its-kind dental facility outside a hospital, has significantly improved daily treatment capacity and reduced the waiting period for specialist treatment.

The PPPNS operates in Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Melaka, serving 11.89 million residents. The ministry is also expanding public access to basic dental services through outreach programmes, with eight new Mobile Dental Clinics expected to arrive by year-end in various states.