Japanese pharma giant Takeda has announced the plans to bring its dengue vaccine, Qdenga, to Indian markets by 2026, in collaboration with Hyderabad-based Biological E to be a part of the 'Make in India' programme and boost local manufacturing capacities.

Key Highlights

Planned Launch for 2026

• Takeda hopes to out license Qdenga in India next year upon completion of the current clinical trials and regulatory clearances.

• The company has already filed a data package in favor of registration in 40 nations.

Private and Public Sector Launch

• Qdenga will be rolled out simultaneously in both private and public sectors.

• The private sector launch will initially target pediatric and adult populations, as per WHO guidelines.

Partnership with Biological E
Partnership with Biological E is intended to facilitate local manufacturing and ensure maximum vaccine availability under the 'Make in India' initiative.

Tiered Pricing Strategy
Takeda intends to apply a tiered-pricing approach, securing reduced prices for government purchases to promote access to vaccines in India.

Regarding Qdenga Vaccine

• Qdenga is a tetravalent, live-attenuated vaccine against all four serotypes of dengue.

• It takes a two-dose schedule administered over a period of three months.

Quotes of Officials and Leaders
Derek Wallace, President, Global Vaccine Business Unit, Takeda:
"We intend to roll out the vaccine in private and public sectors simultaneously. The first discussion is consistent with WHO recommendations for introducing public programs in the pediatric age group. We are, however, rolling out the vaccine in the private sector in both the pediatric and adult populations."On Pricing:
"Our emphasis continues to be on broadening access through tiered pricing, securing lower prices for central government procurement on a country-by-country basis."Takeda's forthcoming introduction of Qdenga represents a crucial milestone towards intensifying dengue prevention efforts in India. Through the partnership with Biological E and a tiered pricing approach, the firm hopes to drive vaccine affordability and availability, counteracting the increased burden of dengue across India.