Indian Immunologicals pledges 5 lakh doses of veterinary anti-rabies vaccine for vaccination of free roaming dogs

New Delhi: Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), the world’s largest manufacturer of rabies vaccines, has pledged 5 lakh doses of veterinary-Anti-Rabies vaccines under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme for the vaccination of Free roaming dogs.

This national anti-rabies vaccination drive reflects IIL’s unwavering commitment to the “One Health” mission, recognizing the critical link between animal health, human health, and community well-being.

IIL, a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), with its combined Animal and Human portfolio of vaccines, is the single largest contributor to India achieving self-sufficiency in the field of vaccines. IIL has developed many vaccines that address Zoonotic diseases including those for rabies. IIL is the largest producer of both Human and Animal anti-rabies vaccines in the country. IIL holds 70% market share in the animal anti-rabies trade market and 41% in the human anti-rabies trade market.

The company was the 1^st in India to produce a safer Vero cell based anti-rabies vaccine for use in humans. In addition to catering the needs of the domestic market, IIL also exports its vaccines to 50 countries, especially in the developing world. With its immense commitment to the society, IIL has always been in the forefront to combat dreaded diseases through the production of vaccines which are affordable and accessible. Vaccine is the most cost-effective tool in helping in fighting diseases. IIL through its distribution networks ensures availability and accessibility of its products across the country.

In order to support rabies control in India and to live fearless against the dreaded disease, IIL has come forward to pledge 5 lakh doses of veterinary anti-rabies vaccine under its CSR programme.

Elaborating on this initiative, Dr K Anand Kumar, MD, Indian Immunologicals Ltd said “It is important to create awareness among the general public about avoiding human-animal conflict for peaceful coexistence. Systematic vaccination of all dogs whether it be free roaming or a pet is necessary for comprehensive control of rabies. Several countries have eliminated rabies through a multi-pronged approach”.

IIL believes in eradication/ elimination of diseases and undertakes several CSR activities that benefit our society. “Rabies Free Thiruvananthapuram” is a project in Kerala that is being sponsored by IIL and the results are very encouraging. IIL also provides 1 lakh doses of free rabies vaccines every year on the World Zoonosis Day and World Rabies Day. IIL runs a campaign “Fearless Against Rabies” in social media to create awareness among people that Rabies in 100% preventable with proper vaccination.