Hyd-based Indian Immunologicals Unveils Needle-Free Intranasal COVID-19 Vaccine

The vaccine, created in collaboration with Griffith University in Australia, is designed to offer an alternative to traditional COVID-19 vaccines.

Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a Hyderabad-based vaccine manufacturer, has developed a new live-attenuated, needle-free intranasal vaccine for COVID-19. 

Formed in collaboration with Griffith University, Australia, the needle-free vaccine is designed to offer an alternative to traditional Covid-19 vaccines.

It uses codon deoptimization technology, which is noted for its efficiency in virus attenuation. 

A recent publication in Nature Communications detailed this method. Codon deoptimization is a strategy that simplifies the virus, making it less virulent while still prompting an immune response. 

According to IIL, this approach is safer and less time-consuming than conventional methods, which can take several years.

IIL also emphasized that live attenuated vaccines, like the one they developed, are known for generating a robust and broad-spectrum neutralizing antibody response. 

“Completely guided attenuation and the means are well known, and the attenuated virus is expected to present all the antigens and mimic natural infection,” the Hyderabad-based vaccine manufacturer stated.

Concern for Covid-19 Still Remains

Despite advancements in vaccine technology, Covid-19 continues to be a global concern. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the virus still claims approximately 1,700 lives weekly. The WHO has reiterated the importance of keeping up with vaccinations and boosters, especially for those at risk.

Additionally, in extensive animal studies, IIL’s new vaccine has demonstrated stability and safety, suggesting it could be an effective tool in the ongoing fight against the virus. 

K Anand Kumar, MD of IIL, said, “This accomplishment signifies a major step forward in our battle against COVID-19. The development of this vaccine not only highlights our dedication to innovation in public health and demonstrates IIL’s capability to adopt novel technology.”

The WHO reported a rise in COVID-19 positivity rates globally, from 7.4% to 13% over a recent four-week period. The JN.1 variant has been identified as a major concern and is now reported in 135 countries.

IIL was established by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in 1982 and has since developed various vaccines for animals and humans. The company is also working on a dengue vaccine, which is expected to be available by 2026.