Did Zydus Lifesciences Just Launch India's First Trivalent Flu Vaccine?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Zydus Lifesciences has made a groundbreaking advancement by launching India's first trivalent flu vaccine. This innovative vaccine aligns with WHO guidelines and aims to enhance public health by providing targeted protection against evolving influenza strains. Discover how this initiative could transform flu prevention in India and globally.
Key Takeaways
- First trivalent flu vaccine launched in India by Zydus Lifesciences.
- Recommended for individuals 6 months and older.
- Aligns with WHO guidelines for the NH 2025-26 season.
- Focuses on strains currently circulating.
- Aims to reduce vaccine-preventable diseases.
New Delhi, Sep 2 (NationPress) - On Tuesday, Zydus Lifesciences unveiled India’s inaugural trivalent influenza vaccine, in accordance with the global guidelines set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO).
As seasonal influenza viruses mutate swiftly, it is essential to update vaccine formulations each year. The WHO has thus advised the use of trivalent vaccines for the upcoming 2025-2026 Northern Hemisphere (NH) influenza season.
The newly introduced Vaxiflu-Trivalent Influenza Vaccine (TIV) is recommended for individuals aged 6 months and older. It provides protection against strains including an A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1) pdm09-like virus; an A/Croatia/10136RV/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and a B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus, as per the company's statement.
Globally, influenza vaccines are available in both quadrivalent and trivalent options.
Previously, India utilized a quadrivalent flu vaccine regimen that protected against these strains, along with the influenza B Yamagata virus.
However, since March 2020, there has been no circulation of the influenza B Yamagata virus, including in India, indicating a very low risk of infection. Therefore, the inclusion of this strain in influenza vaccines is no longer deemed necessary.
In line with this, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has also recommended the use of the Trivalent Influenza vaccine for the upcoming NH 2025-26 season. India joins 40 countries, including the United States, in adopting the trivalent vaccine.
“Vaccines play a crucial role in safeguarding health during challenging times filled with infectious and communicable diseases. Our commitment to global guidelines ensures timely access to vaccines, which are vital for preventive healthcare,” stated Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences.
“We believe this will greatly reduce vaccine-preventable diseases and complications among high-risk groups,” he added.
Influenza remains a significant global health issue, causing 3-5 million cases of severe illness and 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths each year. The disease particularly affects vulnerable populations, including infants, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions.
The flu, a contagious respiratory illness, is caused by influenza viruses that spread from person to person, primarily through airborne droplets produced from coughing and sneezing, or through direct contact.
Point of View
I believe that the introduction of the trivalent flu vaccine by Zydus Lifesciences is a commendable step towards enhancing public health in India. This initiative reflects the country's commitment to aligning with global health standards and protecting its population from preventable diseases. It is essential for us to remain proactive in our approach to healthcare, especially in the face of emerging health threats.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the trivalent flu vaccine?
The trivalent flu vaccine offers targeted protection against three strains of the influenza virus, aligning with WHO recommendations to ensure effective vaccination during the flu season.
Who is eligible to receive the new vaccine?
The Vaxiflu-Trivalent Influenza Vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 6 months and older.
Why is India switching from a quadrivalent to a trivalent vaccine?
Due to the absence of the influenza B Yamagata virus circulation since March 2020, the NCDC has recommended the trivalent vaccine which focuses on the currently circulating strains.
How does the flu vaccine contribute to public health?
Flu vaccines significantly reduce the incidence of severe illness and related complications, particularly among vulnerable populations.
What are the expected benefits of this vaccine launch?
The launch aims to enhance flu prevention efforts, reduce vaccine-preventable diseases, and improve public health outcomes across India.
