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New Delhi: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has called for private companies and manufacturers to collaborate on the development and commercialization of a new vaccine targeting typhoid and paratyphoid infections.
In a recent announcement, ICMR invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from eligible organizations to validate and develop vaccine technology pioneered at the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections (NIRBI), Kolkata. The vaccine aims to combat pathogens such as Salmonella Typhi, Salmonella Paratyphi, and Salmonella Typhimurium under stringent regulatory guidelines.
“The selected companies/manufacturers will not only contribute to the development process but will also be responsible for commercialization and marketing,” stated the research body. The initiative is part of ICMR’s broader strategy to strengthen India’s response to infectious diseases.
ICMR emphasized that applicants would be assessed based on their research capabilities, facilities, and proposed development plans. Successful entities will be expected to pay a royalty of 2% on net sales in line with ICMR’s technology development collaboration guidelines.
India has witnessed a substantial rise in typhoid cases, with a 2021 study led by the Christian Medical College, Vellore, and ICMR estimating around 1 crore cases nationwide—the highest globally. Given the disease’s significant burden, effective vaccination remains a key strategy in disease control.
Currently, India has an indigenous Vi-TT conjugate vaccine approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, ICMR believes that its new vaccine technology, derived from outer membrane structures of typhoid-causing pathogens, may offer enhanced protection.
ICMR has assured continued technical support and expert guidance throughout the development phases to ensure the success of the project.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or investment advice. Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals or official sources for more details on vaccines and disease prevention strategies.
