Gurugram-based Premas Biotech has announced that its joint venture Oravax will initiate testing of their oral virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine candidate against Omicron variant of SARS-CoV 2 virus through preclinical, in vitro and challenge studies to assess its efficacy for the new mutant strain.

Premas Biotech, Oramed Pharmaceuticals, MyMD Pharmaceuticals, and certain other shareholders formed Oravax Medical to bring an oral COVID-19 vaccine to the market. 

The Oravax oral vaccine candidate has received clearance from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority to begin enrollment in phase I clinical trials in South Africa.

If approved, Oravax’s oral VLP vaccine candidate would be used either as a standalone vaccine or as a booster for previously vaccinated individuals. The oral method of administration may result in greater safety by reducing potential side effects.

Oravax's vaccine technology is highly scalable for manufacturing and is easily transferable for wide-scale logistical distribution, as there is no need for freezer storage.