Latest inventions in science and technology Dengue Vaccine – QDENGA (TAK-003) Context: Recently, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approved Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India's QDENGA (TAK-003), making it the first dengue vaccine to receive approval in India. About QDENGA (TAK-003) Type: A live-attenuated tetravalent vaccine that provides protection against all four types (serotypes) of the dengue virus. Dosage: Two 0.5 ml subcutaneous injections, given three months apart. Age Group: Approved for people aged 4 to 60 years. No Pre-Screening Needed: People do not need a dengue test before vaccination, making it easier to use. WHO Recommendation: Recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for dengue-endemic areas with high transmission. WHO Prequalification: Allows agencies like UNICEF and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to procure the vaccine. Global Approval: Already approved for use in 43 countries across Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Significance for India: The approval brings India in line with WHO-recommended strategies for dengue prevention and control.
