The vaccine has been introduced for the first time in India, aligning with the global recommendations of WHO
Zydus Lifesciences has launched its trivalent influenza (Flu) vaccine VaxiFlu introduced for the first time in India, aligning with the global recommendations of WHO.
Speaking on the transition to the trivalent vaccine, Dr Parvaiz Koul, FRCP (Pulmonary Medicine) (Royal College of Physicians, London), FERS (Fellow of European Respiratory Society) “Influenza vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against seasonal influenza and its complications. Globally, the influenza vaccine is available as quadrivalent and trivalent formulations. Given the global pattern of influenza virus circulation since March 2020, with no circulation of influenza B Yamagata virus, the global regulatory bodies like WHO, CDC, etc, have clearly recommended that B/Yamagata should no longer be a component of the vaccine formulation. Nearly 40 countries, including the US, have already adopted the trivalent vaccine. Under such circumstances, the trivalent influenza vaccine is the most scientific formulation for use. Pertinent to add that influenza B/Yamagata has not been reported from India either, and as such trivalent formulation is clearly the way forward. There is no point vaccinating against a virus which is not longer in circulation for the past five years.”
Speaking on the need to step up preventive health, Dr Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences said, “Vaccines are essential for well-being and good health in times where we are battling several infectious and communicable diseases. We believe in aligning with global guidelines and enabling timely access to vaccines, as they are a critical part of preventive healthcare. We believe that this will significantly reduce vaccine-preventable diseases and related complications in high-risk groups.”
