New Delhi/Hyderabad: India’s first dengue vaccine, “DengiAll,” is making significant strides in its Phase III trial, as confirmed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting this study to test a vaccine that targets all four dengue virus types.
This information came up during a Lok Sabha session when Eatala Rajender, a Member of Parliament, inquired about the vaccine. The trial is happening at 20 research sites across India, including JSS Medical College and Hospital in Mysore, Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute in Bengaluru, and AIIMS Bibinagar in Hyderabad. Over 10,000 people are participating, with more than 70% already enrolled. Each research center has a budget between Rs 1.3 to Rs 1.5 crore.
Dengue is a significant health issue in India. In 2024, the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) recorded 573,563 confirmed cases. India ranks among the top 30 countries for dengue prevalence. There is currently no approved antiviral treatment or vaccine in India. The Union Health Ministry provides clinical management guidelines, shared with all states and Union Territories, to improve response during outbreaks.
All four dengue virus types circulate in India, sometimes even in the same person. The ICMR has chosen trial locations that represent this diversity to test the vaccine’s effectiveness comprehensively.
The government is also taking action through the National Health Mission (NHM). Measures include vector control, fogging, public awareness initiatives, and better surveillance systems. Sentinel Surveillance Hospitals and Apex Laboratories offer free diagnosis and reporting.
