Cervavac Vaccine Achieves WHO Prequalification on October 5
Serum Institute's Cervavac becomes India's first HPV vaccine to receive WHO prequalification, enabling global distribution.
Cervavac is India's first indigenous HPV vaccine to gain WHO prequalification.
The vaccine targets HPV strains 6, 11, 16, and 18 for individuals aged 9 to 26.
This milestone allows Cervavac to be procured by UN agencies for worldwide distribution.
On October 5, 2026, the Serum Institute of India announced that its HPV vaccine, Cervavac, has received prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant achievement marks the 32nd prequalification for biological products from the Serum Institute, underscoring its commitment to global health initiatives.
Cervavac is a recombinant quadrivalent vaccine designed to protect against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, which are associated with various cancers and genital warts. The vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys aged 9 to 26 years, making it a crucial tool in the fight against HPV-related diseases. Previously, it was approved for use in India by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).
Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute, expressed pride in this development, highlighting that the WHO prequalification is a testament to the vaccine's efficacy. He stated, "This milestone reflects the effectiveness of the vaccine and creates the opportunity for countries to prevent HPV-related risks." The prequalification allows Cervavac to be included in the WHO's list of prequalified vaccines, facilitating its procurement by United Nations agencies for global distribution.
The vaccine was developed in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, along with support from the WHO-IARC and the Gates Foundation. Cervavac not only aims to prevent cervical cancer in women but also addresses anal cancer in men and boys, as well as genital warts in both genders.
Looking ahead, the Serum Institute plans to enhance immunization coverage globally through the distribution of Cervavac. The vaccine is available in both 1-dose and 2-dose vials, with administration schedules varying by age group. As countries prepare to integrate this vaccine into their public health strategies, the Serum Institute remains committed to advancing global healthcare initiatives.
