Effectiveness of Dengue Vaccination in Children and Adolescents: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Dengue is an infectious disease caused by a flavivirus, primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, whose incidence has significantly increased in Brazil, affecting all age groups, especially children. Data from the Ministry of Health reveal a 15.8% increase in dengue cases in 2023, highlighting the need for preventive measures, including the evaluation of vaccination. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of dengue vaccination in Brazilian children and adolescents aged 5 to 16 years, aiming to prevent severe forms of the disease. A systematic review was conducted between February and March 2024, using the PubMed database and the Ministry of Health. The descriptors employed included "Dengue Vaccines," "Vaccination Coverage," "Immunization Programs," and "Child," resulting in the selection of four relevant articles. The analysis focused on the efficacy of the CYD-TDV and TAK-033 vaccines, emphasizing randomized clinical trials. The results indicated that the CYD-TDV vaccine has an efficacy of 80.8% in preventing severe dengue and 91.7% in preventing hemorrhagic dengue after three doses, while TAK-033 showed an efficacy of 85.9% against hemorrhagic dengue. Furthermore, TAK-033 demonstrated efficacy in both seropositive and seronegative individuals, covering a broader age range. The studies highlight the importance of vaccination as a preventive strategy, especially in vulnerable populations, and suggest the need for further research to assess the durability of protection and the safety of vaccines. In conclusion, the analysis indicates that both CYD-TDV and TAK-033 provide significant protection against severe forms of dengue, making the implementation of public health policies focused on vaccination essential.