Zydus Lifesciences has announced plans to develop a combination vaccine targeting both shigellosis and typhoid. With support from the Gates Foundation, the company will begin early-stage development, including animal studies and regulatory preclinical toxicology assessments.
The project is set to commence in March 2025, with Zydus collaborating with a partner to co-develop the vaccine. This combination will utilize Zydus’ WHO-prequalified typhoid conjugate vaccine alongside a Shigella vaccine from its partner.
The goal of the TCV-Shigella combination vaccine is to protect children under five years old from shigellosis, a diarrheal disease caused by Shigella bacteria, and typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella bacteria. This is especially important in regions where both diseases are common.
If successful, this vaccine could significantly reduce the impact of these two serious diseases on children globally. Zydus Lifesciences’ Managing Director, Sharvil Patel, emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in developing high-quality, affordable vaccines that can have a lasting effect on public health.
M Hari Menon, Country Director of the Gates Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting that it leverages India’s scientific expertise and has the potential to protect children not just in India but worldwide.
As of now, Zydus Lifesciences shares were trading at Rs 870 on the BSE.
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