New Delhi: India may soon launch its first indigenous dengue vaccine, DengiAll, which is currently in the final phase of clinical trials. If trials proceed successfully, the vaccine could become available to the public next year.
The vaccine has been developed by Panacea Biotec in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Dengue: A Growing Public Health Threat
Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. According to the World Health Organization, nearly half of the world’s population is at risk, with an estimated 100 to 400 million infections reported globally each year.
In India, dengue cases have been rising steadily. As per the National Centre for Disease Control, more than 2.3 lakh dengue cases and nearly 300 deaths were reported in 2024 alone.
While most patients experience mild fever and body aches, severe dengue can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, and dengue shock syndrome, making it potentially fatal.
Why Dengue Is Difficult to Treat
There is currently no specific cure for dengue. Treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms through hydration, rest, and medication. Cases typically surge during the monsoon season, making vaccination one of the most promising long-term preventive strategies.
Why Dengue Vaccine Development Is Challenging
Dengue has four different virus serotypes. Immunity against one type does not guarantee protection against the others. In fact, infection from a different serotype after initial exposure can sometimes cause more severe illness. This complexity has made dengue vaccine development scientifically challenging.
What Makes ‘DengiAll’ Unique?
DengiAll uses weakened forms of all four dengue virus serotypes to help the body safely build immunity. One of its key advantages is that it is designed as a single-dose vaccine, potentially offering protection with just one injection.
Phase-1 trials have shown the vaccine to be safe and effective. Currently, Phase-3 trials involving over 10,000 participants are underway across India.
Syed Khalid Ali, a scientist at Panacea Biotec, said the company is working to make the vaccine available as soon as possible. Dr. Ekta Gupta from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences noted that a vaccine is crucial to control the rising dengue burden in the country.
Other Dengue Vaccine Efforts in India
The Serum Institute of India is also developing its own dengue vaccine in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health, and its candidate is currently in advanced trial stages.
A Major Public Health Breakthrough Ahead?
If DengiAll clears the final trial phase and receives regulatory approval, India will have its first homegrown dengue vaccine. This could significantly reduce annual dengue cases and prevent severe complications, marking a major milestone in India’s fight against vector-borne diseases.
With dengue cases rising each year, the launch of an effective indigenous vaccine could become one of the strongest tools in protecting millions from this life-threatening infection.
