Indian Immunologicals Limited Partners with ICMR for Zika Vaccine Clinical Development
Significance of the Collaboration
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) recently announced its partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for the clinical development of India's first codon de-optimized live attenuated Zika vaccine. Zika disease, primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses serious risks, especially to pregnant women.This collaboration marks a milestone in vaccine development for emerging infectious diseases.
Details of the Vaccine Development
Zika disease may lead to complications such as microcephaly and other congenital malformations, and currently, there is no preventive vaccine available. IIL has been proactive in addressing public health needs and has partnered with Griffith University, Australia, for preclinical studies of this promising vaccine.
- Total reported Zika cases in India as of July 22, 2024: 537
- IIL’s strategical foresight in vaccine development contributes significantly to India's self-sufficiency in vaccines.
- ICMR will finance Phase I clinical trial costs and facilitate the trials across various ICMR network sites in India.
The Path Forward
As stated by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, DG-ICMR, “This initiative is vital for achieving 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Viksit Bharat', allowing Indian innovators to conduct vital trials domestically.” With the collaboration underway, the urgent need for effective Zika vaccination is closer to being realized.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.