Pakistan has taken a significant step towards eliminating rabies in the country with the introduction of the Dow Rab vaccine. Developed by the Dow Institute of Life Sciences (DILS) at the Ojha campus, this native anti-rabies vaccine offers hope to those suffering from dog bites in Sindh.
The unveiling ceremony, presided over by Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy, Vice-Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), marked a landmark moment in Pakistan’s medical landscape. Professor Quraishy emphasized the vaccine’s pivotal role in saving lives and committed to ensuring its availability in the future.
Initially, the Dow Rab vaccine comprises 30,000 doses, which are quickly made available through an efficient distribution network. The hope is that this breakthrough will alleviate the suffering of countless individuals who are exposed to the threat of rabies.
Professor Quraishy’s speech at the ceremony highlighted DUHS’s commitment to self-sufficiency in vaccine production. The university aims to replace imported raw materials with locally sourced ingredients. In the future, Pakistan envisions being able to supply its own demand for anti-rabies vaccines. Plans are underway to increase production to an additional 170,000 doses.
Commercial production of Dow Rab followed extensive research and regulatory processes undertaken by DILS’ Chief Executive Officer, Syed Izhar Hussain. DUHS’s commitment to accessibility and affordability is evident in the price of the vaccine. The entire course can be purchased for a nominal amount of Rs1,500.
To ensure nationwide accessibility, the Department of Health and Human Services has signed an agreement with distribution giant Muller & Phipps. This partnership will make Dow Rab readily available throughout Pakistan, addressing the urgent need for rabies prevention measures.
Rabies is a persistent threat in Pakistan, claiming thousands of lives each year. The National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad requires over 2 million anti-rabies vaccine doses annually, with a large proportion imported from India. However, pricing conflicts and currency devaluation have created challenges in the availability and affordability of vaccines. The introduction of Dow Rab at this critical moment highlights the importance of local manufacturing in stabilizing prices and ensuring a reliable supply chain.
The Dow Rab vaccine is a significant achievement in Pakistan’s efforts to combat rabies. With its commitment to self-sufficiency and accessibility, DUHS is making strides towards eliminating this deadly disease. By offering hope and a reliable supply of anti-rabies vaccines, Pakistan is taking a step closer to a rabies-free future.