SII might have to destroy 200 million COVID-19 vaccines due to oversupply, says Adar Poonawalla

Serum Institute of India (SII) chief executive Adar Poonawalla has told CNBC-TV18 that the world’s largest vaccine maker might have to destroy a minimum of 200 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine as there is an oversupply. Speaking exclusively to CNBC-TV18 at Davos, Poonawalla said, “We will lose 200 million doses of vaccines minimum. We might have to destroy them as they are nearing expiry by August-September this year.” Poonwalla is advocating a global pandemic treaty and proposing that next time there is a framework for leaders to work with rather than having to negotiate. After Covishield for adults, Serum also produced the Covovax vaccine for those in the age group of 12-18 years. The company has submitted all the research documents related to the vaccine for administration in the 2-11 years age group to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). “Children also need to start getting vaccinated. We hope that picks up, and that’s the only age group left to be vaccinated,” Poonawalla said. India’s drug regulator had approved Covovax for restricted use in emergency situations in adults on 28 December last year and in the 12-17 age group, subject to certain conditions, on 9 March. Globally, SII has sold 80 million doses of Covovax and expects to sell another 100 million doses. The company is hoping to get USFDA approval for Covovax by June this year. SII is making a cervical cancer vaccine, and it is expected to launch in November-December this year. It is also mulling launching a 6-in-1 vaccine for children, a 5-in-1 meningitis vaccine and a vaccine for Malaria. SII is also starting clinical trials for a dengue vaccine. Poonawalla also said the firm might raise its stake in Biocon-Biologics by a couple of percentage points soon. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.