Although around 402,000 cases have been recorded so far this year—a 30% decrease compared to the same period last year—the numbers remain concerning.

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São Paulo Declares Dengue Epidemic After Surpassing Critical Case Threshold

This Tuesday, the Brazilian government took a significant step in the fight against dengue by announcing the production of the first vaccine against the disease, entirely developed and manufactured in the country.

Health Minister Nísia Trindade unveiled the project during a ceremony held amid political uncertainty, as rumors swirl about her potential removal in an upcoming cabinet reshuffle. Although President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was present, he did not address the attendees.

The new vaccine, which will be administered in a single dose, has proven effective against all four serotypes of the dengue virus. It is projected that 60 million doses will be produced annually by 2026, to be distributed through the country’s public health network.

This ambitious project is the result of a collaboration between the Butantan Institute, one of Brazil’s most prestigious laboratories, and the Chinese company WuXi Biologics, with an initial investment estimated at 1.26 billion reais (approximately 221 million dollars).

The need for this vaccine is urgent. In 2024, Brazil reported an alarming record of 6.65 million probable dengue cases and 6,022 deaths attributed to the disease.

Although around 402,000 cases have been recorded so far this year—a 30% decrease compared to the same period last year—the numbers remain concerning.

The situation is particularly severe in the state of São Paulo, which has declared a public health emergency after reporting approximately 200,000 probable cases between January and February, with 102 confirmed deaths and another 225 under investigation.

The introduction of this vaccine represents hope for curbing the spread of dengue in Brazil, a country that has faced a significant increase in the disease in recent years.

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