IVI Initiates Technology Transfer to Biological E. Limited for Oral Cholera Vaccine Production
Hyderabad: In a bid to combat the escalating threat of cholera outbreaks globally, the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has embarked on a crucial technology transfer initiative. Today, IVI declared the commencement of technology transfer of simplified Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV-S) to Biological E. Limited (BE), a prominent Vaccines and Pharmaceutical Company based in India.
This strategic move follows the execution of a technology license agreement between IVI and BE in November last year. As per the agreement, IVI is furnishing BE with technical insights, know-how, and necessary materials to facilitate the production of OCV-S at BE facilities. IVI will further extend support in clinical development and obtaining regulatory approvals. The collaboration between IVI and BE aims to bolster the production of low-cost cholera vaccine both for India and the global public market.
The technology transfer process is scheduled for completion by 2025, with Biological E. Limited set to manufacture the oral cholera vaccine for distribution in India and international markets.
Dr. Jerome Kim, Director General of IVI, emphasized the importance of such collaborations in combating poverty-associated infectious diseases like cholera. He stressed the need for sustainable sources of high-quality, affordable vaccines and lauded BE’s commitment to making life-saving vaccines accessible globally.
Ms. Mahima Datla, Managing Director of Biological E. Limited, echoed Dr. Kim’s sentiments, expressing her company’s dedication to combatting cholera and contributing to global health initiatives.
This technology transfer marks the sixth of its kind for IVI, with previous collaborations spanning across India, the Republic of Korea, Bangladesh, and South Africa. The ultimate goal is to attain pre-qualification from the World Health Organization, enabling global agencies like UNICEF to procure the vaccine for widespread distribution.
Dr. Julia Lynch, Director of IVI’s Cholera Program, underscored the urgency of the situation, highlighting the vital role of oral cholera vaccines in controlling and preventing outbreaks.
OCV-S represents a simplified formulation of the oral cholera vaccine, poised to reduce production costs and increase production capacity for current and aspiring manufacturers. IVI’s commitment to confronting cholera is underscored by its threefold approach: ensuring supply, improving vaccines, and supporting their introduction.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of IVI’s cholera program since 2000 and is instrumental in funding this latest technology transfer initiative to BE.
This collaborative effort between IVI and BE stands as a testament to the collective resolve to address global health challenges and foster a healthier, more resilient future for all.