Serum Institute of India and Panacea Biotec have applied to the ICMR’s call for Expressions of Interest for collaborative Phase-III clinical trials for an indigenous dengue vaccine, bringing India closer to a major milestone.
The Dengue Virus and Its Global Impact
- Dengue virus disease causes major morbidity and mortality around the world, with 2 to 2.5 lakh (200,000 to 250,000) cases recorded in India each year.
- Dengue fever’s global prevalence has risen substantially, putting more than half of the world’s population at danger.
- Dengue fever has been named one of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) top ten global health issues for 2019.
- There is currently no particular treatment for dengue, emphasising the critical need for effective vaccinations.
Characteristics of an Ideal Dengue Vaccine
- The ICMR emphasises the ideal properties of a dengue vaccine, which include- A high level of safety
- Dengue protection against all four serotypes
- Reduced chance of serious illness and death
- Induction of a long-lasting immunological response and efficacy regardless of previous serostatus or age
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/dengue-in-all-states-vaccines-in-the-offing-8614381/