Home / Health / Vaccine Prices Surge: BCG, MR Costs Rise Significantly
Vaccine Prices Surge: BCG, MR Costs Rise Significantly
17 Jun
Summary
- Vaccine ceiling prices increased by about 21% for BCG, Measles, and MR.
- NPPA revised prices following a review application by Serum Institute.
- The revision ensures vaccine availability and addresses manufacturer concerns.
The Indian government has announced a notable increase in the ceiling prices for essential vaccines, including BCG, Measles, and Measles-Rubella (MR). This adjustment, reflecting an approximate 21% rise, was implemented by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) after reconsidering an earlier pricing order.
The revision came about following a review application submitted by the Serum Institute of India. The manufacturer argued that vaccines have unique characteristics compared to conventional medicines, necessitating a different pricing approach. The Department of Pharmaceuticals supported this view, noting the vaccines' public health importance, stable price trends, and minimal cost burden on citizens.
Consequently, the NPPA has revised the ceiling prices, removing a previously applied reduction linked to monopoly status. This decision aims to resolve the manufacturer's grievance and crucially ensure a sufficient supply of these vital vaccines in the market. The new ceiling prices are ₹9.89 for BCG, ₹62 per vial for Measles, and ₹87.93 per vial for Measles-Rubella.
