Independent panel study results show there was “vaccine failure” in “two to three” of 14 cases, DOH official says
(Eagle News) — There has been “vaccine failure” in “two to three” children of the 14 who were administered Dengvaxia and who were autopsied by an independent panel of experts.
Health Undersecretary Dr. Rolando Enrique Domingo said that while the “vaccine failure” was seen only in “a small number” of cases, the results of the panel therefore only “strengthen the decision made by Secretary (Francisco Duque III) to stop the vaccin(ation) (program).”
“(Dengvaxia) really has failed in some children, and in some cases, may sakit, mukhang may possible problem din. We feel Dengvaxia is not ready for (use in) mass immunization (programs),” Domingo said in a press conference.
According to the panel’s presentation of their study results, the cause of death of the three cases was “dengue shock,” which Sanofi earlier said Dengvaxia could prevent for “up to six years.”
Two died of acute leukemia, two of lupus nephritis, one of congenital heart disease, one of brain infection, and one of brain hemorrhage.
One died of rheumatic heart disease, one of septic shock, and one of cardiac arrythmia.
The causes of death of the remaining two cases have yet to be determined, the results said.
He said the results of the study will be submitted to the Department of Justice, which is still conducting an investigation into the Dengvaxia mess.
He said the DOH will continue monitoring the children who were given the controversial vaccine.
“Usually ang lumang vaccine, 30 days lang pagbabantay sa adverse events. We will watch for adverse events for the next 3 to 5 years. Di pa natin alam kung may lalabas pa na ibang problema, di lang dengue,” he said. Jerold Tagbo and Moira Encina, Eagle News Service