Zydus Lifesciences has rolled out VaxiFlu-4, a quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine formulated for the 2025 southern hemisphere flu season, making it the first of its kind in India. Developed at the Vaccine Technology Centre (VTC) in Ahmedabad, this advanced vaccine covers four influenza virus strains in line with the World Health Organization’s recommendations, offering broader protection and reducing the likelihood of vaccine mismatch.
VaxiFlu-4 provides immunity against A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus, A/Croatia/10136RV/2023 (H3N2)-like virus, B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus, and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (B/Yamagata lineage)-like virus. By targeting both influenza A and B strains, it aims to minimize the impact of seasonal outbreaks that often lead to severe complications in high-risk groups such as children under five, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences, observed, “Preventives are the key to public health in both the developing and the developed world and vaccines have the potential to improve the quality of life.” He emphasized the importance of accessible, high-quality vaccines to address India’s pressing healthcare needs, noting that annual immunization remains a pivotal strategy to mitigate the spread of flu.
Zydus Vaxxicare, the preventive healthcare division of the group, will market VaxiFlu-4. With the vaccine’s approval by the Central Drug Laboratory (CDL), doctors across the country can consider it a valuable tool for lowering influenza morbidity and mortality rates.
