The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a significant development in the fight against cholera, a potentially deadly diarrhoeal disease. On April 19, 2024, the WHO prequalified Euvichol-S, a new oral cholera vaccine (OCV) manufactured by South Korea-based EuBiologics Co., Ltd. This prequalification signifies that the vaccine meets WHO standards for quality, safety, and efficacy.
Addressing the Critical Shortage of Cholera Vaccines
The prequalification of Euvichol-S arrives at a crucial time. Cholera outbreaks have been on the rise globally, with the number of reported cases doubling from 2021 to 2022. This surge in cases has exposed a critical shortage of existing OCVs.
“Vaccines provide the fastest intervention to prevent, limit and control cholera outbreaks,” the WHO stated. “However, supplies have been at the lowest point amidst countries facing dire shortcomings in other areas of cholera prevention and management such as safe water, hygiene and sanitation.”
The WHO prequalification of Euvichol-S offers a glimmer of hope in addressing this vaccine shortage. The simplified formulation of Euvichol-S allows for faster and more efficient production compared to existing vaccines. This has the potential to significantly increase the global supply of OCVs and improve access for communities battling cholera outbreaks.
What is Euvichol-S?
Euvichol-S is a new iteration of the Euvichol family of OCVs developed by EuBiologics. It represents a simplified version of the existing Euvichol-Plus vaccine. This simplification streamlines the manufacturing process, potentially paving the way for a rapid increase in production capacity.
The prequalification by the WHO follows the successful licensure of Euvichol-S by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (KMFDS) in December 2023. This licensure was preceded by a comprehensive phase 3 clinical trial conducted by the International Vaccine Institute (IVI).
EuBiologics: A Major Player in OCV Production
EuBiologics is already a major player in the global OCV market, boasting a market share of over 80%. With their existing production capacity, EuBiologics claims the ability to produce up to 50 million doses of OCVs annually. The addition of Euvichol-S to their production portfolio has the potential to further increase their output. According to media reports, EuBiologics is poised to ramp up its OCV production to 52 million doses in 2024, with over 15 million doses being Euvichol-S.
Understanding Cholera: A Devastating Disease
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. This bacterium is typically transmitted through contaminated water or food. While most exposed individuals experience no symptoms or mild illness, cholera can be life-threatening if left untreated. The rapid dehydration caused by severe diarrhea and vomiting can lead to death within hours.
The WHO estimates that there are 1.3 to 4.0 million cases of cholera worldwide each year, resulting in 21,000 to 143,000 deaths. The disease disproportionately affects communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
Symptoms and Prevention of Cholera
While vaccination is the most effective way to prevent cholera, other measures are crucial in controlling outbreaks. Here’s a breakdown of cholera symptoms and preventive measures:
- Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration
- Muscle cramps
- Prevention:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water
- Consuming only safe drinking water
- Eating thoroughly cooked and hot food
- Sticking to fruits and vegetables that can be peeled
A Multifaceted Approach to Combating Cholera
The prequalification of Euvichol-S marks a significant step forward in the fight against cholera. However, it’s important to remember that vaccination alone cannot eradicate the disease. A comprehensive approach that addresses underlying sanitation and hygiene issues remains essential.
Increased access to clean water and sanitation facilities, coupled with improved hygiene practices, are crucial in preventing the spread of cholera. Governments and international organizations must prioritize investments in these areas alongside ensuring the availability of effective vaccines like Euvichol-S.
The WHO prequalification of Euvichol-S offers a valuable tool in the fight against cholera. With increased production capacity and wider availability of this new vaccine, communities around the world will have a better chance of preventing and controlling cholera outbreaks. However, sustained efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene infrastructure are also necessary to achieve long-term success.
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