Dengue Fever : What You Need to Know

The dengue vaccine (Qdenga®) is available in the UK for travellers aged 4 and above, offering protection for at least 4.5 years against this mosquito-borne virus. It requires two doses, given three months apart, and is recommended for those visiting high-risk areas like Thailand, Brazil, or India who’ve had dengue before.

First-time travellers to dengue zones should avoid the jab, as prior exposure is key to safety. Spread by daytime mosquitoes in tropical regions, dengue causes severe flu-like symptoms, and prevention also includes using insect repellent (50% DEET) and covering up.

While the vaccine isn’t available on the NHS, private travel clinics like Aqua Travel Clinic in London provide it – book a consultation to assess your risk.

Who Should Get It?

  • Travellers visiting high-risk areas (e.g., Thailand, Brazil, India) with prior dengue exposure (confirmed or suspected).
  • Not recommended for first-time travellers to dengue zones (may increase severe risk if infected later).