Pune-based Vaccine Manufacturer Poised to Fill Void Left by Sanofi’s Plant Closures
In a significant development, the Serum Institute of India (SII) has emerged as the primary contender to tackle India’s looming polio vaccine crisis following the closure of Sanofi’s manufacturing plants. Sanofi Pasteur, the key contributor to India’s injectable polio vaccine (IPV) supply, shuttered its facilities, prompting concerns about a potential shortage.
Sanofi’s exit leaves a substantial gap in the IPV market, as the company used to supply approximately 80% of the country’s IPV doses. However, with its proven track record in managing vaccine production and responding to health crises, SII has become a pivotal alternative for India’s vaccination needs.
Sources familiar with India’s immunization program emphasized the nation’s success in eradicating polio since 2014, leading to its WHO certification as polio-free. Despite this achievement, the closure of Sanofi’s plants underscores the importance of SII in maintaining vaccine supply chains.
Adar Poonawalla, CEO of SII, reassured the public of the institute’s readiness to address any potential crisis. He affirmed SII’s capacity to maintain uninterrupted IPV production and expressed willingness to scale up production as needed. Currently, SII has ample IPV stock to meet immediate demands and is prepared for future requirements.
Dr. Govind Choudhary, deputy immunization officer of the state health department, confirmed that India currently has sufficient IPV stock, with over 8 million doses available against the required 6.3 million doses since April 2023.
Poonawalla’s assurance, coupled with the state health department’s confirmation, alleviates concerns about IPV shortages. With SII’s commitment to maintaining supply continuity, India’s polio vaccination program remains on track despite the challenges posed by Sanofi’s exit.
