Dengue Vaccination in Rayleigh, Essex
Protect against dengue—quick, hassle-free vaccination and travel tips help you enjoy tropical adventures with confidence.
What is Dengue Fever and Why Get the Dengue Vaccination?
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It often leads to symptoms like high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and, in some cases, severe complications like hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
Dengue is currently the fastest-spreading mosquito-borne viral disease in the world. It affects millions of people worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Asia, South America, and Africa.
The dengue vaccination is recommended for individuals travelling to countries where dengue fever is endemic. It is particularly advised for those with previous dengue infection, as they are at greater risk of severe illness upon reinfection.
At Rayleigh Travel Clinic, we offer the dengue vaccination to help reduce your risk before travelling to high-risk areas. Our expert travel health team provides professional guidance and convenient appointments, so you can travel with confidence.
What is QDENGA® and How does it Work?
QDENGA® is a groundbreaking vaccine developed to protect against dengue fever, a potentially serious mosquito-borne illness caused by the dengue virus. Unlike other vaccines, QDENGA® is designed to protect against all four strains of the dengue virus (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4), offering broad-spectrum protection for people living in or travelling to areas where dengue is common.
QDENGA® is a live-attenuated vaccine, which contains a weakened version of the virus that stimulates the immune system without causing the disease. When administered, the vaccine helps the body develop immunity against all four strains of the dengue virus. This immune response can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation in case of infection.
Why Choose QDENGA®?
- Broad Protection: QDENGA® is the first dengue vaccine that protects against all four dengue virus serotypes.
- Proven Safety and Efficacy: Clinical trials have demonstrated the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing dengue fever and reducing the severity of the disease.
Who Should Get QDENGA®?
QDENGA® is recommended for individuals living in or travelling to regions where dengue fever is common, particularly in areas with high transmission rates.
The vaccine is intended for individuals within the approved age group, typically from 4 years of age and above.
Current Guidelines for use
In the UK, the QDENGA® dengue vaccine is offered to individuals at risk who have had a prior dengue infection.
A second dengue infection can pose a higher risk of severe illness. Since many cases are symptom-free, confirming past infection is important before vaccination. Currently, proof of a previous infection is required, which can include:
- A positive PCR or antigen test during illness.
- A blood test showing past exposure.
If you’ve visited high-risk dengue areas and are unsure of past exposure, we offer a blood test at our Dermatetics store to check for prior infection.
Cost of in-house test: £85
Possible Side Effects
Like all vaccines, QDENGA® may cause some mild side effects, which typically resolve within a few days. These may include:
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue or headache
Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms after vaccination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is QDENGA® Administered?
QDENGA® is administered through an injection, usually in the upper arm. It is administered as part of a two-dose regimen, three months apart.
If you do not have sufficient time to complete both doses before travel, it is still advisable to have at least one dose before travelling, and the second dose can be completed on return.
Do I need a booster?
A need for a booster dose has not yet been established, but after completion of two doses, there is long-term protection for at least 4 – 5 years.
Can I get the Dengue Vaccination with other vaccines?
Absolutely! QDENGA® can be safely administered at the same time as other vaccines, such as Hepatitis A and Yellow fever, if required.
How to prevent Dengue while traveling?
While QDENGA® is an essential tool in combating dengue, it should be used as part of a broader strategy for dengue prevention. In addition to vaccination, individuals should continue to use mosquito control measures, such as:
- Wearing insect repellent
- Using mosquito nets
- Eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed
Why Choose Us?
- CQC-registered travel health specialists
- Easy to use online booking system
- Competitive pricing
- Located within Audley Mills Pharmacy, Rayleigh, Essex