Sanofi insists dengue vaccine is effective

December 4, 2017

Sanofi Pasteur stressed Monday Dengvaxia remains to be an effective vaccine versus dengue.

"The fact that the vaccine has its value because the Philippines has 90 percent of us are sero positive already, the vaccine actually works best," said Sanofi Philippines general manager Ching Santos in a press conference in Taguig City Monday.

Sanofi regional director Joselito Sta. Ana said majority of Filipinos have had dengue with only a small number manifesting symptoms, making the vaccine effective.

"9 out of 10 are already exposed. And this does not refer only to those who were hospitalized for dengue," said Sta Ana.

Sanofi Global medical head Ng Su Peing said clinical studies continue to show Dengvaxia is effective.

"For ages 9 and above, they are safe and effective, with 65.6 percent reduvtion in symptomatic, 80.8 percent reduction in hospitalized dengue, and 93.2 percent in severe dengue," noted Peing.

"You have to look at the local data. You have to look at the epidemiology and the burden of the disease of the country to make an assessment," she said.

But the Sanofi executives said their latest findings make it imperative that dengue vaccine must not be given to those who have not been exposed to dengue.

"With this profile, what we would say is that today if you know somebody who has no previous infection, you would not recommend vaccination," said Peing.

Last week, Sanofi admitted a new analysis of long-term clinical trial data showed differences in vaccine performance based on prior dengue infection.

Sanofi had said the latest analysis confirmed Dengvaxia provides persistent protective benefit against dengue fever in those who had prior infection; while those not previously infected by dengue virus, may result to more cases of severe disease following vaccination upon a subsequent dengue infection.

Sanofi officials denied accusations Filipino children were used as "guinea pigs" in testing the dengue vaccine sans complete assessment.

"Clinical trials are different from commercial product. Just like any other studies done here or in other country, the clinical study is a different process. Once it has been licensed, it is already a different situation," explained Santos.

Sanofi officials said they are ready to face any investigations of appropriate government agencies once they are called upon.

The Department of Justice has ordered a probe in the dengue vaccine controversy while the Senate will conduct hearings is also looking to conduct hearings by January. DMS