Govt floats EoI for developing monkeypox vaccine, diagnostic kits in public-private partnership mode

Monkeypox often starts with flu-like symptoms before causing rash on face and body (Representative image)

The Centre has invited expression of interest (EoI) from the experienced vaccine manufacturers, in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) kit manufacturers for joint collaboration in developing vaccine candidate and diagnostic kits against Monkeypox disease.

“The ICMR is willing to make available Monkeypox virus strain and isolates for undertaking research and development validation as well as manufacturing activities using characterized isolates of Monkeypox virus under the joint collaboration in the public-private partnership mode for development of vaccine candidate against Monkeypox disease and development of diagnostic kits for diagnosis of infection,” the EoI read.

According to the ICMR, the last date submission of interest will be August 10.

Also read: WHO declaring monkeypox global health emergency a premature move, says top Indian epidemiologist

The ICMR in the EoI stated that it is willing to collaborate with experienced vaccine manufacturer as well as the in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturers on 'Royalty' basis on fixed term contract condition for undertaking research and development and manufacturing of monkeypox vaccine candidate and diagnosis kit.

The EoI seen by MoneyControl, said the manufacturers or companies interested in this collaboration may quote royalty not less than five percent on net sales of the end product on half yearly basis.

The ICMR has stated that the agreement following the EoI will be executed on “Non-Exclusive” basis with single or multiple firms, due to the extensive demand of Monkeypox virus isolates which is being envisaged to develop vaccine candidates and IVD kits.

The ICMR and National Institute of Virology (NIV) will provide expert guidance and technical support on the research and development and product development, in all phases.

The ICMR has also said that the information provided at this stage is indicative and ICMR reserves the right to amend or add any further details in the EoI.

Also read: Explained: What is known about monkeypox

The development comes after Dr. VK Paul, member (health) NITI Aayog told MoneyControl that the Centre has started deliberations with private vaccine makers to explore options of developing a potential vaccine for Monkeypox in future, if need arises in future.

"There is no such vaccine for specially for monkeypox. There was a vaccine for small pox earlier. So, we are looking at that aspect, if there is a need for a vaccine at some point of time, we are also engaging with potential players and have initiated exploration," Dr Paul said.

The NITI Aayog member said that the surveillance for monkeypox has been increased and also urged people to not hide and take treatment.

Meanwhile, an official source said, two Indian pharma companies are engaged in the discussion with the government for making a potential vaccine for Monkeypox.

India has reported four cases of monkeypox virus infection, which was declared as a global public health emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO) last week.