A dengue vaccine is now available for travelers. Here's what you need to know

A dengue vaccine called Qdenga is now available for travelers visiting popular Australian destinations where the mosquito-borne illness is common. Dengue, a viral illness, causes fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash, with no specific treatment. Severe cases may require hospitalization, and in rare instances, it can be fatal.

There are four types of dengue virus, and infection with any type provides lifelong protection against that type, but not against the others. While dengue is rare in Australia's tropical regions, there have been occasional outbreaks in overseas travel destinations like Indonesia, Thailand, and India.

Qdenga, a weakened dengue virus vaccine, is given in two doses three months apart and offers strong protection against dengue in children and adolescents in endemic regions. In trials, it prevented about 80% of illness and over 95% of hospitalizations in the first year. Protection against hospitalization remained high for more than four years.

The vaccine is recommended for Australians aged 4 or older who have had dengue before or those planning long-term or repeated trips to dengue-prone areas. However, it is not suitable for people with weakened immune systems or during pregnancy.

While Qdenga has shown strong protection in studies involving children and adolescents, there is less evidence for its effectiveness in adults, particularly for protection against types 3 and 4 of the dengue virus. Different countries have varying recommendations for who should receive the vaccine, and the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional based on individual circumstances such as travel plans, previous exposure to dengue, and overall health.

Even with vaccination, it remains crucial to avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and taking other precautionary measures.