Dengue vaccine rollout in India: lessons for Pakistan's public health preparedness

Abstract

Dengue fever continues to challenge public health systems across South Asia, with Pakistan and India facing recurrent outbreaks marked by rising case numbers and hospitalizations. While conventional approaches, such as vector control and public awareness campaigns, have had limited long-term success, vaccines now offer a promising complement to existing strategies. India's recent approval of the TAK-003 (Qdenga) dengue vaccine marked a turning point in regional prevention efforts. Through strategic partnerships, tiered pricing, improved cold chain infrastructure, and the use of seroprevalence data to guide rollout, India has developed a framework that balances innovation with accessibility. In contrast, Pakistan's dengue response remains largely reactive, with critical gaps in surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and institutional readiness. Drawing lessons from India's experience, this article highlights key areas for policy improvement in Pakistan. These include investing in vaccine delivery infrastructure, streamlining regulatory processes, strengthening technical advisory bodies and promoting transparent communication to build public trust. Integrating school-based immunization programs and mobile outreach for underserved populations can ensure equitable access. With a phased, evidence-based approach rooted in local epidemiology, Pakistan has the opportunity to incorporate dengue vaccination into its broader public health strategy, reducing disease burden and increasing preparedness for future outbreaks.

Keywords: India; Pakistan; TAK-003 (Qdenga); dengue; vaccine.