Brazil has officially approved the world’s first single-dose dengue vaccine, a landmark development in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. Announcing the decision on Wednesday, Brazilian authorities hailed it as an “historic achievement” that could reshape dengue prevention strategies in tropical regions. The move comes amid growing concern over the global spread of dengue, a potentially lethal illness that thrives in warmer climates.
The National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) has authorised the Butantan-DV vaccine for use in individuals aged 12 to 59. Developed by the São Paulo-based Butantan Institute, the vaccine offers a simpler alternative to the existing TAK-003 vaccine, which requires two doses spaced three months apart. The new single-dose formula is expected to accelerate national vaccination campaigns, making protection against dengue more accessible.
Speaking at a press briefing, Butantan Institute Director Esper Kalas said, “This is a historic moment for both science and healthcare in Brazil. Dengue has plagued our communities for decades, but now we have a powerful weapon to fight it.” In partnership with Chinese company US BioLogics, Brazil aims to produce nearly three million doses of the vaccine by the second half of 2026.
Before receiving approval, the vaccine was tested on 16,000 volunteers, demonstrating a 91.6% efficacy rate against severe dengue infection. Dengue, transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has affected an unprecedented 146 million people worldwide, causing nearly 12,000 deaths. Brazil alone accounted for half of last year’s fatalities. A 2024 study by Stanford University also revealed that 19% of this year’s dengue cases were linked to global warming.
Health experts are optimistic that this single-dose vaccine will enable faster, more widespread protection, providing a vital tool in the ongoing global battle against dengue.