Why in news?
India has started Phase 3 trials for its first home‑grown dengue vaccine, involving over 8,000 participants across 20 centres. The vaccine, named “DengiAll,” is developed by Panacea Biotec with support from the Indian Council of Medical Research.
About DengiAll
- Tetravalent design: It targets all four dengue virus serotypes (DENV‑1 to DENV‑4) to minimise the risk of secondary infection.
- Origin: Based on the TV003/TV005 strain developed by the US National Institutes of Health and licensed to Indian manufacturers.
- Live‑attenuated vaccine: Uses weakened viruses to elicit immunity through a two‑dose schedule, followed by two years of monitoring.
- Large‑scale trial: Conducted at multiple sites such as Chennai, Pune, Delhi and Hyderabad; about 80 % of the planned 10,000 volunteers have been enrolled.
Significance
- Public health: Dengue is among the most widespread mosquito‑borne diseases in India. A successful vaccine could reduce hospitalisations, especially among children.
- Strategic autonomy: An indigenous vaccine reduces dependence on foreign technology and supports the “Make in India” initiative.
- Future prospects: Positive results may lead to regulatory approval and mass production, paving the way for export to other dengue‑endemic countries.