Dengue is Still Killing Malaysians – Don’t Be the Next Victim
Take steps to protect yourselves and your family from severe dengue. Find a nearby clinic that offers dengue vaccination today.
Transcript
Professor Datuk Dr Zulkifli Ismail, Consultant Paediatrician & Paediatric Cardiologist addressed the following questions:
How serious is dengue in Malaysia?
Dengue remains a serious health threat in Malaysia. In 2023, dengue incidence was the third highest after COVID-19 and Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease.
Although dengue cases dropped slightly by 0.58% in 2024, dengue deaths increased by 17% compared to 2023.
How can Malaysians protect themselves from dengue and severe dengue?
The good news is: we can work together to prevent dengue and dengue-related deaths.
So let’s:
- • Destroy mosquito breeding grounds,
- • Prevent mosquito bites,
- • Seek prompt treatment if you develop symptoms, and
- • Get vaccinated to prevent severe dengue.
Dengue Vaccination – Is It Really Necessary?
Dr Koh Kar Chai, General Practitioner shared his thoughts:
As a doctor, I see firsthand how severe dengue can be, even in healthy individuals. That’s why I chose to protect myself by getting vaccinated against dengue.
Dr Law Teik Yeong, General Practitioner shared his experience:
I had decided to vaccinate not only myself but also for my family members against dengue. My wife, children, parents and in-laws are all vaccinated.
Why? Because I want to ensure that my whole family is protected against the risks of severe dengue.
Remember: dengue does not discriminate. Young or old, anyone can get it.
Dato’ Dr Chow Ting Soo, Consultant Infectious Disease Physician provided more details about the dengue vaccine:
Does the Dengue Vaccine Really Work and Is It Safe?
The dengue vaccine works by training your immune system to recognise and fight the dengue virus. Hence, protecting you against all four strains of the virus
Studies show:
- • Dengue vaccine reduces your risk of dengue infection by 80.2%
- • Reduces risk of hospitalisation by 95.4%
The dengue vaccine is safe. It has been thoroughly evaluated by the Malaysian Drug Control Authority (DCA).
What are the side effects of the dengue vaccine?
- • Common side effects are mild: sore arm, low-grade fever.
- • Severe reactions like anaphylaxis are rare, but have been observed. Inform your doctor if you have a history of severe allergic reactions.
Bottom line: I will recommend the dengue vaccine even for young and healthy individuals because they are too at risk to develop severe dengue.
Based on 2023 data, 45% of dengue deaths in Malaysia occurred among adults aged 20–49 years old.
Let’s not underestimate dengue.
Dr Selva Kumar Sivapunniam, Paediatrician addressed questions regarding the eligibility and access to the dengue vaccine:
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The dengue vaccine is currently available in Malaysia and is recommended for individuals aged 4 years and above.
Who is highly recommended to get vaccinated?
- • Live or frequently visit areas where dengue cases are high
- • Have chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity
- • Have had dengue infection before
Who should not receive the vaccine?
- • Pregnant women
- • Breastfeeding mothers
- • People with weakened immunity (e.g., HIV)
Where Can You Get the Dengue Vaccine?
You can get the dengue vaccine at private hospitals and private clinics in Malaysia. Find a nearby clinic that offers dengue vaccination here: IFL Clinic Directory
What are the other Steps to Prevent Dengue?
Dr Haema Shunmugarajoo, Consultant Paediatrician & Infectious Disease Physician highlighted the other preventive measures on top of vaccination.
While vaccination is important, please remember to:
- Destroy mosquito breeding grounds. For example, remove stagnant water.
- Prevent mosquito bites by applying mosquito repellents and wearing long-sleeved clothing while doing outdoor activities
- Seek immediate treatment if you develop dengue symptoms.
These four steps can help us prevent dengue and dengue deaths.
I hope you put this into practice — and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
