TL;DR: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is calling on private companies to collaborate in developing and commercializing a new vaccine targeting both typhoid and paratyphoid fevers. This initiative aims to tackle the rising cases of these diseases in India.
Hey folks! Big news on the health front! 📰 The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is on the lookout for private partners to join hands in creating a vaccine that fights both typhoid and paratyphoid fevers. These illnesses are caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi, respectively. ICMR's National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections (NIRBI) in Kolkata has been working on this, and now they're seeking collaborators to bring this vaccine to the masses.
Why is this important? 🤔
Typhoid fever is a serious illness that can be life-threatening. In recent years, India has seen a significant rise in typhoid cases. A study led by researchers from the Christian Medical College, Vellore, and ICMR found that in 2021, the country recorded approximately 1 crore cases of typhoid fever—the highest in the world.
What's the plan? 📝
ICMR is inviting proposals from eligible organizations, companies, and manufacturers for the joint development and commercialization of this vaccine. The idea is to validate the vaccine technology developed at ICMR-NIRBI Kolkata and then develop the vaccine with proper regulatory compliances. The selected partners will also work on the commercialization and marketing of the vaccine. ICMR will provide expert guidance and technical support throughout the process.
How can companies get involved? 🏢🤝
Interested companies need to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) by April 7, 2025. They'll be shortlisted based on their research and development plans, facilities, and capabilities. Once selected, these companies will be responsible for paying a royalty of 2% on net sales, as per ICMR guidelines.
The bigger picture 🌍
Vaccination against typhoid has proven to be a safe and effective preventive measure. Currently, India has its own indigenous Vi‐TT conjugate vaccine approved by the World Health Organization. The development of a new vaccine may improve treatment and reduce the burden of typhoid in India.
MediaFx Opinion 🧐
This move by ICMR is a step in the right direction, but it's crucial to ensure that the vaccine, once developed, is accessible and affordable to all, especially the working class and marginalized communities. Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and efforts like these should prioritize equality and public welfare over profit.
What are your thoughts on this initiative? Share your views in the comments below! 🗣️👇
