Home / Health / Spurious Rabies Vaccine Probe Rocks India
Spurious Rabies Vaccine Probe Rocks India
3 Feb
Summary
- Investigation into fake rabies vaccine circulation in India launched.
- One person arrested in connection with spurious vaccine case.
- Government uses systems to monitor drug and vaccine availability.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and State Licensing Authorities are investigating the presence of spurious rabies vaccines circulating within India. This probe was initiated following a complaint from a pharmaceutical company and has resulted in the arrest of one individual. Manufacturing, selling, or distributing counterfeit drugs is a criminal offense under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
To enhance drug supply chain integrity, the Union Health Ministry employs the Drug and Vaccine Distribution Management System. This system aids in monitoring the purchase, supply, distribution, and inventory of essential medical items across district and state facilities. The CDSCO has also implemented guidelines for drug recalls and rapid alerts, with draft good distribution practices published to ensure quality.
Further measures to bolster drug security are underway. A proposal to implement bar codes or quick response (QR) codes on pharmaceutical products was discussed and agreed upon. This initiative will extend to all vaccine products, antimicrobials, and controlled substances in a phased manner, aiming to improve tracking and prevent the circulation of substandard or counterfeit medicines.
