Answer:

Mosquitoes transmit various infectious diseases, including dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, Chikungunya, malaria, yellow fever, and Zika. Several of these have preventable vaccines available in Vietnam suitable for your age:

Dengue fever vaccine: Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted primarily through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has a vaccine that protects against all 4 serotypes of the dengue virus (Den-1, Den-2, Den-3, and Den-4). Available for children aged 4 and older, as well as adults, this vaccine reduces the risk of infection and recurrence by over 80% and the risk of hospitalization by over 90%. The vaccination schedule involves two doses, administered three months apart. Women planning pregnancy should ideally complete the vaccination course at least three months prior to conception, and at least one month prior.

Japanese encephalitis vaccine: Japanese encephalitis, a viral infection spread by Culex mosquitoes that bite infected wild birds and livestock (pigs, buffalo, cows, horses), has several preventative vaccines available through both the Expanded Program on Immunization and private clinics. A doctor can recommend the appropriate vaccine and schedule based on your vaccination history.

Individuals prone to mosquito bites should prioritize dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis vaccines, and yellow fever vaccine if traveling to affected areas. Illustration: Vecteezy

Individuals prone to mosquito bites should prioritize dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis vaccines, and yellow fever vaccine if traveling to affected areas. Illustration: Vecteezy

Yellow fever vaccine: Prevalent in South America and Africa, this vaccine is required by some African countries (e.g., Central African Republic, Congo, Kenya, Liberia) for travelers aged 9 months or older. If you travel frequently or plan to visit affected areas, this vaccine is recommended. A single dose is administered for children aged 9 months and older, at least 10 days before traveling to the affected region.

In addition to vaccinations, maintain a clean and well-ventilated home, regularly clean water containers, remove stagnant water from buckets and basins, clear drains, keep livestock pens away from living areas, and use mosquito nets, even during the day.

During the current rainy and flood season, consider additional vaccines for influenza, meningococcal disease, and pneumococcal pneumonia to protect your health.

Doctor Nguyen Van Quang

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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