Novel Single-Strain Oral Cholera Vaccine Launches in India

Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) announced on X the launch of HILLCHOL (BBV131), a novel single-strain Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV).

Like other OCVs, HILLCHOL is a two-dose vaccine, which BBIL says needs to be orally administered on Day 0 and Day 14. The vaccine is suitable for individuals aged above one year.

However, it differs from the other vaccines because it is a single-strain OCV. BBIL stated on August 27, 2024, that this feature enhances manufacturing ease and efficacy.

As of August 2024, there is a global shortage of OCVs.

BBIL's collaboration with MSDInvents, Wellcome Trust, and Hilleman Laboratories aims to address the critical shortage of OCVs.

Currently available OCVs include Valneva SE's DUKORAL®.