Bharat Biotech and Bilthoven Biologicals are on a mission to eradicate polio worldwide

As per the reports, Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) has joined forces with Bilthoven Biologicals (BBio) to eradicate polio worldwide. This collaboration aims to enhance the production and security of supply for Oral Polio Vaccines (OPV). 

It is a milestone achieved by both BBIL and BBio. BBIL is a leading global player in vaccine and biotherapeutic innovation. BBio is a subsidiary of Serum Institute of India Private Limited, and together, they shall bolster Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) production and supply chain security.

Under this strategic alliance announced on Tuesday, BBIL will procure essential drug substances from BBio for OPV manufacturing. A formal agreement has been inked by representatives from both organisations, solidifying BBIL's commitment to procure OPV drug substances from BBio for distribution across India and globally.

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, expressed optimism about the potential impact of this alliance on the global polio eradication efforts, emphasising its significance in reducing the disease's burden.

Furthermore, both organisations have promised to navigate regulatory approvals and licensing requirements to facilitate the commercial launch of these vaccines. This strategic manoeuvre highlights a concerted effort to combat polio more effectively. Together, they promise to provide vulnerable populations with enhanced protection against this debilitating disease.

Dr. Krishna Ella, Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech, pointed out the pivotal role of OPV in India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) and BBIL's longstanding commitment to global immunisation initiatives. He said that collaborating with BBio ensures a reliable supply of OPV, thus supporting their mission to eradicate polio worldwide.