Company Watch

Serum launches low-cost HIB vaccine

Our News Bureau - Mumbai

Serum Institute of India, announced the launch of its indigenously manufactured low-cost Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine under the brand name of "HibPRO" in India. HibPRO has been priced at MRP Rs 375 for a monodose vial.

Haemophilus influenza causes infections that are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in young children spreading through droplets. Children below five years of age are at highest risk of the disease. Every year globally around three to five lakhs children die due to H. influenza type b disease. HIB vaccines are safe and highly effective. HibPRO has undergone series of clinical trials to prove its efficacy and safety in comparison with commercially available Hib conjugate vaccines. With the launch of HibPRO serum can extend the benefits of pentavalent or quadravalent vaccines at a very affordable price. These benefits are mainly fewer numbers of injections, lesser pain to the child and protection against multiple diseases such as H. influenza type b, Hepatitis-B, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus in one injection," said Dr Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman, Serum Institute of India.