Asunción,Paraguay,February 3,2026 – Paraguay is dramatically expanding its dengue vaccination programme,now offering the shot to residents up to age 39. The move signals a growing concern about the mosquito-borne illness extending beyond children,and a shift in strategy to protect a wider swath of the population.
Expanded Dengue Vaccine access Aims to Curb Rising cases
Paraguay is broadening its dengue vaccination efforts to include young adults, responding to a surge in infections across multiple age groups.
- Between 2019 and 2024, over 108,000 dengue cases were reported in Paraguay among individuals aged 20 to 39.
- The decision to expand vaccination eligibility is based on recent epidemiological analysis.
- Paraguay is utilizing the Qdenga vaccine, a two-dose shot protecting against all four dengue serotypes.
- Brazil, Paraguay’s neighbor, is focusing on a different, single-dose dengue vaccine.
- Dengue vaccines are currently unavailable in the continental United States.
What’s the best way to protect yourself from dengue fever? Vaccination,when available,is a key preventative measure,alongside mosquito avoidance strategies like using repellent and eliminating standing water.
The Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare announced the broadened strategy today, building on an initial program focused on vaccinating children in areas with the highest dengue risk. The decision, revealed on February 3, 2026, comes after years of tracking the disease’s impact, revealing a significant burden not just on children, but also on adolescents and young adults.
Data from 2019 to 2024 shows the 20-to-39 age group accounted for more than 108,000 dengue cases in the South American nation-one of the highest incidence rates recorded. This significant number prompted officials to extend access to the second-generation, two-dose Qdenga (TAK-003) vaccine, which offers protection against all four serotypes of the dengue virus.
Paraguay emphasizes that vaccination is a crucial part of a broader approach to combatting dengue, alongside ongoing surveillance and preventative measures. Neighboring Brazil recently announced its own strategy, prioritizing a newly approved, single-dose Butantan-DV vaccine for its population.
Currently, residents of the continental United States do not have access to dengue vaccines. Travelers to areas where dengue is prevalent should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Do you have thoughts on expanding vaccine access? Share your viewpoint in the comments below.
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