Clinical Research Directory

Clinical Study to Assess the Immunogenicity and Safety of Hexavalent Vaccine Containing Reduced Dose IPV

In 2012, the World Health Assembly (WHA) endorsed the proposed Polio Endgame Strategy, which includes withdrawal of the Sabin-virus type 2 antigen-responsible for an estimated 95% of vaccine derived cases of polio by replacing the trivalent Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) in the routine immunization schedule with a bivalent OPV that lacks the type 2 Sabin virus. Since the WHA resolution, all countries that were solely using OPV have either introduced Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) into their routine immunization schedule or decided to introduce IPV but have been unable to secure supply. The global demand for IPV has therefore substantially increased in just a few years. Many initiatives are ongoing to meet the increasing demand for IPV. One potential approach is the reduction of the amount of antigen per vaccine dose. Therefore, to enhance the affordability, effectiveness and accessibility of IPV. SIIPL has manufactured hexavalent combination vaccine containing diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b and a reduced dose of three IPV antigens. Based on available published data, reduction of the antigen content of each of the three poliovirus types in IPV is feasible, without substantially compromising the immunogenicity of the vaccine. Advantages of a reduction in antigen content are two-fold: increased availability of IPV and reduced cost, both of major importance for the global eradication programme.