Study Confirms 54% Effectiveness of Indigenous Rotavac Vaccine Against Gastroenteritis in Indian Children
A study published in Nature Medicine has confirmed the effectiveness of Rotavac, India's indigenous oral rotavirus vaccine. Conducted across 31 hospitals in nine states between 2016 and 2020, the study found a 54% reduction in rotavirus-based gastroenteritis hospitalizations. Rotavac was introduced into India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in 2016 and is administered at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age. The vaccine was developed through a public-private partnership involving the Department of Biotechnology and Bharat Biotech. Rotavirus is a leading cause of death in children under five, accounting for approximately 128,500 deaths annually.
Key Points
- Rotavac is an indigenous oral vaccine provided free to beneficiaries under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
- The vaccine showed 54% effectiveness in real-world conditions, matching phase 3 clinical trial results.
- It is administered in three doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age.
- The study is one of the largest ever conducted on rotavirus vaccine effectiveness in India.
Exam Facts
- 54% effectiveness rate
- Administered at 6, 10, and 14 weeks
- 128,500 annual child deaths due to rotavirus in India
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