India to Receive First Approved Dengue Vaccine
In a significant development for public health in India, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories has announced an exclusive partnership with Japan-based Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. The collaboration aims to bring QDENGA (TAK-003), India's first approved dengue vaccine, to the private market. This agreement marks a crucial step in addressing the nation's substantial dengue burden, with the vaccine anticipated to be available in the first half of 2027.
Distribution and Availability
Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Reddy's will be responsible for the promotion and distribution of QDENGA for both pediatric and adult vaccinations across India's private healthcare sector. This includes engaging with healthcare professionals and initiating disease awareness campaigns. Takeda, meanwhile, will maintain the rights to promote and distribute the vaccine in the public market, retaining legal ownership and overall medical oversight for QDENGA in India.
QDENGA received marketing authorization from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in July 2026, cleared for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years. Its availability is contingent on the completion of all necessary local regulatory processes.
Addressing India's Dengue Burden
The introduction of QDENGA comes at a critical time for India, a country grappling with a high incidence of dengue cases. Research cited by the companies indicates an eleven-fold increase in reported dengue cases over the past two decades. A nationwide surveillance study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the circulation of all four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4) across various regions, with a notable proportion of patients experiencing concurrent infections.
"As the second-largest vaccine player in India, we believe the introduction of India’s first approved dengue vaccine is an important development for the country’s healthcare landscape," stated M.V. Ramana, CEO, Global Generics, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories. "Through our collaboration with Takeda, we look forward to making QDENGA available to eligible individuals and contributing to efforts aimed at addressing the country’s dengue burden."
About QDENGA Vaccine
QDENGA, also known as TAK-003, is a live-attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine designed to protect against all four dengue virus serotypes. It is administered in a two-dose regimen, with doses given three months apart. Takeda's global clinical development program for the vaccine involved over 60,000 participants across eight dengue-endemic countries.
Since its initial approval in 2022, QDENGA has secured marketing authorization in 43 countries and has seen over 32 million doses distributed globally through both public and private immunization programs. The World Health Organization has also included QDENGA on its List of Prequalified Vaccines, underscoring its global recognition and efficacy.
While the financial terms of the distribution agreement have not been disclosed, both companies are focused on preparatory activities for the private market launch, including extensive engagement with healthcare professionals and public awareness campaigns, leading up to the vaccine's availability in early 2027.