Clinical trials for Indigenous Dengue Vaccine

Serum institute of india and panacea biotec apply for collaborative phase-iii clinical trials for indigenous dengue vaccine 

Source: The Hindu

 Introduction:

• The Serum Institute of India and Panacea Biotec have submitted an Expression of Interest to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for collaborative Phase-III clinical trials of an indigenous dengue vaccine.
• Dengue, a viral disease transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, poses a significant global health threat. With no specific treatment currently available, the development of an effective dengue vaccine is crucial.

What is Dengue?

• Dengue is a viral disease caused by the dengue virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family.
• It is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti.
• The dengue virus comprises four distinct serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4.
• Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, pain behind the eyes, and mild bleeding.
• Severe cases can lead to plasma leakage, bleeding, and organ impairment.

Geographic Distribution and Global Impact:

• Dengue is endemic in over 100 countries, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Annually, there are 100-400 million dengue infections worldwide, straining healthcare systems and economies.
• Over half of the world’s population is at risk of contracting dengue.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) classified dengue as one of the top ten global health threats in 2019.

Current Treatment and Prevention:

• There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue; supportive care, rest, fluid intake, and symptom management are recommended.
• Prevention and control measures focus on reducing mosquito breeding sites, proper water storage, cleaning of water containers, and the use of insecticides.

Importance of Dengue Vaccine:

• The increasing global incidence of dengue necessitates the development of an effective vaccine.
• Dengue-related morbidity and mortality are significant, with annual reports of 200,000 to 250,000 cases in India alone.
• An ideal dengue vaccine should have a favorable safety profile, protect against all four serotypes, reduce the risk of severe disease and death, induce a sustained immune response, and be effective regardless of previous sero-status and age.

The Conclusion:

• Serum Institute of India and Panacea Biotec’s application for collaborative Phase-III clinical trials of an indigenous dengue vaccine underscores the urgent need for an effective preventive measure against this global health threat. With dengue’s increasing incidence and its impact on healthcare systems and economies worldwide, the development of a safe and efficient vaccine is crucial in mitigating the burden of this disease.

Mains Exam Practice Question: Dengue is a significant global health threat, with a substantial impact on healthcare systems and economies. In light of this, discuss the challenges and potential benefits associated with the development and implementation of an effective dengue vaccine.