São José dos Campos starts administering single-dose vaccine against dengue
São José dos Campos has begun administering the single-dose dengue vaccine to health professionals as part of a phased immunization strategy.
São José dos Campos in Brazil has initiated the application of the Butantan-DV single-dose vaccine against dengue, beginning with health professionals from the municipal Primary Health Care network. The city government emphasizes that the first group to receive the vaccine includes Community Health Agents (ACS) and Endemic Combat Agents (ACE), who are critical in combating arboviral diseases. The first vaccination is scheduled to occur at 9 AM at the UBS Resolve Jardim da Granja in the city's southeast region.
The government of São Paulo has provided the municipality with 1,161 doses of this groundbreaking vaccine, with plans to gradually expand the immunization to the wider population of Primary Health Care workers. This vaccine is notably the first of its kind globally to offer single-dose coverage for dengue, targeting individuals aged 12 to 59 years. Clinical studies have shown that the vaccine is highly effective, reducing approximately 75% of dengue cases, which is significant in managing this public health threat.
As dengue virus infections continue to pose a challenge in various regions, the introduction of this vaccine represents a proactive step by local health authorities. The strategy prioritizes frontline health workers, reinforcing the importance of protecting those most involved in immediate community health responses. The initiative also reflects a broader trend in public health to enhance preventive measures against diseases like dengue, which have epidemic potential in tropical regions like Brazil.