Dengue Vaccine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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What is the dengue vaccine?

The dengue vaccine is given to help prevent severe illness caused by the dengue virus. The vaccine is only given to children who have had dengue before. A blood test will check for past dengue infection before the vaccine is given. The dengue vaccine is recommended for children aged 9 to 16 years. Your child should get the vaccine if he or she is living in an area where dengue is common. Your child must wait 6 months after dengue virus infection before he or she can get the vaccine. The vaccine may protect your child from severe dengue virus infection for at least 6 years.

When should my child get the dengue vaccine?

The vaccine is given in 3 doses. The second dose is given 6 months after the first dose. The third dose is given 6 months after the second dose.

What are reasons my child should not get the dengue vaccine?

• Your child had an allergic reaction to a dose of the vaccine, or a past reaction to any part of the vaccine.
• Your child has a severe or life-threatening allergy.
• Your child has a weakened immune system.
• Your child is older than 16 years.

What are reasons my child should wait to get the dengue vaccine?

• Your child is younger than 9 years.
• Your child is sick or has a fever.
• Your child is pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Your child had a live vaccine, such as influenza (flu) vaccine, within the last 4 weeks.

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What are risks of the dengue vaccine?

The area where the vaccine was given may be red, tender, or swollen. Your child may still get dengue, even after he or she gets the vaccine. Your child may develop a fever, headache, tiredness, muscle pain, or weakness. Your child may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This may be life-threatening.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• Your child is wheezing or has trouble breathing.
• Your child's mouth and throat are swollen.
• Your child has chest pain or his or her heart is beating faster than usual.
• Your child feels like he or she is going to faint.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your child's face is red or swollen.
• Your child has a rash or hives that spread over his or her body.

When should I call my child's doctor?

• Your child's symptoms do not go away after several days or get worse.
• Your child has increased pain, redness, or swelling around the area where the shot was given.
• You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or the dengue vaccine.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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