Dengue cases surge in Malaysia and low vaccine take-up in 2026
Dengue fever cases in Malaysia surged by over 56% in 2026, resulting in 58,079 infections and 55 deaths. Experts attribute the low uptake of the dengue vaccine to high costs and limited public awareness rather than anti-vaccine sentiment.
Why it matters
The rise in dengue cases underscores the challenges of managing infectious diseases in tropical regions and the economic barriers to preventative healthcare.
The low take-up for the dengue vaccine cannot be taken as an anti-vaccine sentiment, an expert said.
Listen Summarise Dengue cases in Malaysia surged 56.2% in 2026, with 58,079 infections and 55 deaths; highest increases seen in Perlis, Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Selangor. Dengue vaccine uptake remains low due to high cost (RM420-RM500), limited awareness, and vaccine restrictions for certain groups like pregnant women. Health Ministry urges intensive prevention measures; experts call for better public education and doctor recommendations to improve vaccine acceptance. AI generated
PETALING JAYA – Dengue infections have surged 56.2 per cent across Malaysia in 2026 with 58,079 cases and 55 deaths recorded so far , but the take-up of dengue vaccines remains low due to cost and lack of awareness, say stakeholders.
Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations, Malaysia president Shanmuganathan TV Ganeson said cost is one factor behind the low vaccine take-up rate.
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