World's first dengue vaccine approved by Mexico

Mexico is the first country to approve the use of the dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia. Around 40,000 people between the ages of 9 and 49, will receive the vaccine during a first-treatment phase.

The treatment has been in the works for the last 20-years by French pharmaceutical company Sanofi-Aventis. The company reportedly spent $1.6 billion to develop the vaccine, which is designed to protect against the four strains of dengue virus.

Trials revealed that it can provide a 56.5 percent protection against the disease.

A Rappler report also noted that three doses reduced the possibility of developing dengue hemorrhagic fever by 88.5 percent and the risk of hospitalization due to dengue was reduced by 67 percent. However, the cost of each dose is yet to be finalized.

This year India registered about 41 dengue-deaths and 19,704 dengue cases were reported up until September 6. Sadly, this figure was almost double than last year with 10,097 registered cases.

Experts in India suggest that if you notice your child displaying symptoms of dengue such a fever, rash and runny nose, you must immediately consult the doctor. Keep your house clean as a measure to protect yourself from the disease.

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