• On May 10, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) granted prequalification to TAK-003, a new dengue vaccine developed by Takeda.

• TAK-003, the second dengue vaccine to receive this status, is a live-attenuated vaccine containing weakened forms of all four dengue virus serotypes.

• The WHO prequalification list also includes CYD-TDV, a dengue vaccine developed by Sanofi Pasteur.

• WHO advises administering TAK-003 to children aged 6-16 years in regions with a high prevalence and transmission rate of dengue.

• The vaccine will be given in a two-dose regimen, with a three-month gap between doses.

• Dr. Rogerio Gaspar, WHO Director for Regulation and Prequalification, emphasized that TAK-003’s prequalification marks a significant advancement in broadening global access to dengue vaccines, making it eligible for purchase by UN agencies such as UNICEF and PAHO. He hoped that more vaccine developers would seek assessment to ensure vaccines reach all communities in need.

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