Health, politics and access
This health newsletter discusses the intersection of public policy and medical access, highlighting India's approval of a new dengue vaccine. It also touches on the physiological impacts of prolonged fasting and ongoing legal discussions regarding health justice.
Why it matters
Understanding the link between public health policy and individual access is essential for addressing systemic health disparities and disease management.
(In the weekly Health Matters newsletter, Athira Elssa Johnson writes about getting to good health, and staying there. You can subscribe here to get the newsletter in your inbox.)
Vaccination remains one of modern public health’s greatest achievements, preventing millions of deaths and substantially reducing the burden of infectious diseases. But scientific breakthroughs alone are not enough, their impact depends on strong regulation, affordability and equitable access.
India’s approval of dengue vaccine for individuals aged 4 to 60 years is therefore one of the week’s most significant health developments. The Drug Controller General of India has authorised Takeda’s two-dose QDENGA vaccine , which protects against all four dengue virus serotypes and can be given without prior dengue screening. As dengue continues to place a heavy burden on India, the approval adds an important preventive tool. Read this explainer to know all about the vaccine.
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