Delays in vaccine rollout and persistent misinformation are slowing the Philippines’ dengue response, health experts warned on Thursday, February 26, even as a next generation shot shows strong protection against severe disease.
At the E.N.D. Dengue Coalition Year One media briefing, Dr. Lulu Bravo of the Philippine Medical Association Adhoc Committee on Dengue Advocacy recalled that an earlier dengue vaccine introduced in 2016 was withdrawn in 2017 and discontinued by 2019, leaving deep public distrust.
“Right now, there is no vaccine available in the market,” Bravo said, noting that rebuilding confidence remains a key hurdle before any new rollout can proceed.
Several countries across Asia, Europe and Latin America have adopted newer dengue vaccines. Bravo said the Philippines is taking a cautious approach to ensure safety and public trust.
She cited clinical data showing that a next generation vaccine developed by Takeda Pharmaceuticals can reduce hospitalizations by 80 to 85 percent in the first year and provide protection for several years. The World Health Organization recommends its use for individuals aged six to 60.
But vaccination is only part of the battle.
Bravo said gaps in clinical management continue to cost lives, pointing to errors in fluid therapy as a recurring problem. Too little, too late, or too much fluids can push patients into critical condition, she said, stressing that proper fluid management remains the cornerstone of dengue treatment.
Dr. Enrique Tayag from the same committee cited Department of Health data showing dengue cases fell 26 percent in 2025 from a year earlier. Children aged one to four accounted for 54 percent of infections, with over half of cases concentrated in Regions III, IV A and the National Capital Region.
As of Feb. 14, about 14,000 cases had been logged, well below last year’s level. Still, experts warned that seasonal spikes early and mid year demand vigilance.
