25 November 2023 | News
IIL’s Human Biologicals Institute celebrates 25 years
Hyderabad-based Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) has launched Mabella (Measles and Rubella) vaccine for children, developed in partnership with Polyvac Institute, Vietnam. Through rigorous human clinical trials, Mabella has demonstrated both safety and effectiveness.
This launch took place along with Human Biologicals Institute (HBI), a branch of IIL, marking its 25th anniversary since its establishment in 1998. Founded in an era emphasising the need for indigenous vaccines, HBI has significantly contributed to India's self-reliance, aligning with the vision of "Atmanirbhar Bharat."
HBI's legacy of innovation began in 1998 with the indigenous development of India's first safe Vero-cell rabies vaccine – Abhayrab, replacing the painful nerve tissue vaccine. Abhayrab is now the world's largest-selling Anti-Rabies vaccine, saving millions of lives globally. HBI subsequently introduced various childhood vaccines, including DPT, Pentavalent Vaccine, TT, Hepatitis-B, MR, and Td vaccines.
Dr K Anand Kumar, Managing Director of Indian Immunologicals, highlighted IIL's substantial contributions to disease control and vaccine accessibility over its 25-year journey. Emphasising IIL's role in disease elimination, he discussed the launch of Mabella, addressing the global threat of Measles and Rubella, which claims around 1,00,000 children's lives annually.