Cholera, a deadly waterborne disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, continues to be a major global public health concern, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. In response to this ongoing challenge, Bharat Biotech, a leading pharmaceutical company, has introduced a new oral cholera vaccine (OCV) called HILLCHOL (BBV131) to help combat the spread of cholera and reduce the number of cases and deaths associated with the disease.
The HILLCHOL vaccine, developed under license from Hilleman Laboratories in Singapore, is a novel single-strain vaccine that is administered orally on day 0 and day 14. This makes it a convenient option for individuals, especially babies older than one year, who need protection against cholera. The vaccine has undergone rigorous testing, including pre-clinical, Phase I, II, and III clinical studies, to establish its safety, efficacy, and non-inferiority to existing OCVs.
One of the key advantages of the HILLCHOL vaccine is its large-scale manufacturing capabilities. Bharat Biotech has established state-of-the-art production facilities in Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar with the capacity to produce up to 200 million doses of the vaccine. This significant increase in production capacity will help meet the growing global demand for OCVs, which currently exceeds 100 million doses annually. By bridging this supply gap, the HILLCHOL vaccine will play a crucial role in the fight against cholera and contribute to the Global Task Force on Cholera Control’s goal of reducing cholera-related deaths by 90% by 2030.
Dr. Krishna Ella, Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech, emphasized the importance of vaccines in preventing and controlling cholera outbreaks. He highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing efforts to combat cholera globally through the production and supply of the HILLCHOL vaccine. With its proven safety and efficacy, the vaccine is poised to make a significant impact on public health by providing a reliable and effective tool for cholera prevention.
In addition to its clinical benefits, the HILLCHOL vaccine also offers practical advantages in terms of storage and presentation. The vaccine is available in a single-dose respule format and should be stored between +2 degrees Celsius and +8 degrees Celsius, making it easy to transport and administer in various settings. Furthermore, the vaccine is presented in a mono-multidose format, a unique feature that enhances its usability and accessibility for healthcare providers and patients.
Overall, the introduction of the HILLCHOL vaccine represents a significant milestone in the global fight against cholera. With its innovative design, robust manufacturing capabilities, and proven effectiveness, the vaccine has the potential to save lives, reduce the burden of cholera, and contribute to the achievement of global health goals. As the world continues to grapple with infectious diseases like cholera, vaccines like HILLCHOL offer hope for a healthier and more resilient future for all.