Dengue vaccination efforts face challenges in Peru and Brazil

Health authorities in Peru and Brazil are addressing dengue through varying vaccination strategies and challenges. In Peru, a free vaccination campaign is targeting individuals aged 10 to 20 in prioritized regions, including Piura, Tumbes, Ucayali, Loreto, San Martín, Lambayeque, La Libertad, and San Juan de Lurigancho in Lima. This initiative follows reports of 71,256 dengue episodes and 75 deaths nationwide. The vaccine requires two doses administered three months apart.

In Natal, Brazil, health officials have expressed concern over low vaccine uptake. Data from 2026 indicates that while 5,798 first doses were administered, only 4,122 individuals returned for the necessary second dose. The vaccine in Natal is designated for children and adolescents aged 10 to 14, following the National Immunization Program guidelines. Authorities noted that some eligible individuals are not seeking the vaccine, while others are failing to complete the two-dose schedule due to concerns regarding potential side effects.