First-Generation Dengue Vaccine Still Offered in Puerto Rico

With significant interest by health-centric consumers and professionals, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated the vaccination schedule for children.

Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Jim O'Neill, acting as the Director of the CDC, recently announced a memorandum embracing new recommendations for childhood immunization practices.

The CDC has now organized the childhood immunization schedule into three categories, one of which highlights the vaccines recommended for Certain High-Risk Groups or Populations.

Within this category, the CDC recommends the use of the first-generation dengue fever vaccine, Dengvaxia, for individuals residing in areas where dengue is endemic and who have a confirmed prior infection.

This recommendation aligns with longstanding CDC guidance for Dengvaxia, emphasizing its use only in seropositive individuals to avoid the risk of enhanced severe disease in those without prior exposure.

As of January 6, 2026, the CDC continues to approve Dengvaxia for children aged 9 to 16 who have had a confirmed prior dengue infection. Last year, Dengvaxia was administered to 82 individuals in Puerto Rico, which is recognized as a dengue endemic area. 

This U.S. Territory reported over 6,000 dengue cases in 2024 and 3,154 local cases in 2025 in tourist areas such as San Juan.

Due to low global demand, the vaccine manufacturer Sanofi has discontinued the production of Dengvaxia, although existing supplies will remain available until their expiration in 2026.

As U.S. health authorities continue to promote its use in Puerto Rico, other countries have deployed the Qdenga second-generation vaccine, and Brazil will soon roll out the third-generation, single-dose vaccine, Butantan-DV.

Unfortunately, the CDC has not approved these newer vaccines.

As international travelers seek warm destinations during the winter of 2026, Puerto Rico's vibrant culture and beautiful beaches remain appealing. However, short-term visitors will not have access to any dengue vaccine.

To alert people of this health risk, the CDC has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for dengue, advising travelers to "Practice Usual Precautions' when visiting endemic areas.

For the latest dengue updates, consult with a travel vaccine advisor before traveling abroad in 2026.