'Indian Immunologicals' new Hyd unit to manufacture 300M doses of FMD vaccine for animals

Hyderabad: To double its capacity to manufacture vaccines to protect cattle from foot and mouth disease and other emerging infectious diseases, the Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) in Genome Valley, Hyderabad, will invest Rs. 700 crores and set up another unit in Hyderabad. The first unit is in Gachibowli. IIL manufactures 300 million doses in Gachibowli.

The new unit in Genome Valley will also manufacture 300 million doses. There will be 750 employees.

Hyderabad: Vaccine hub of the world

Dr. K. Anand Kumar, the MD of IIL, and other members of the executive leadership team of IIL, including senior vice-presidents Mukul Gaur and N.S.N Bhargav, met Telangana industries minister K.T Rama Rao on 10 October and briefed the minister of the company's plans.

Jayesh Ranjan, the principal secretary, industries and commerce, and Shakthi M. Nagappan, director (pharma and life sciences), government of Telangana, were also present during the meeting.

KTR said, "I'm delighted that Indian Immunologicals will be setting up another greenfield facility in Genome Valley. Hyderabad is already regarded as the "Vaccine Capital of the World" and this expansion further advances our contribution in terms of global health, not just for humans but also for animals."

Dr. K. Anand Kumar, managing director, IIL said, "IIL is on an aggressive growth path and this third vaccine facility in Hyderabad will ensure self-sufficiency for our nation in the field of vaccines and thereby saving the exchequer and farmers several thousands of crores." IIL is one of the largest manufacturers of FMD vaccine in the world and is the leading supplier of FMD vaccine to the government of India's National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).

What is foot and mouth disease in animals?

Foot and mouth disease in animals is caused by viruses that are transmitted through air, water, contaminated feed and transport vehicles. It can also be transported through the equipment at the farm, footwear, and clothing of humans.

FMD is caused by Picornavirus and there are seven stereotypes of the virus.

FMD is found in cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and wild animals like hedgehogs, wild cloven-footed animals, and zoo animals, too.

It is very important for livestock industries and animal owners to be aware of FMD.