Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) in Pakistan has pioneered the creation of an innovative anti-rabies vaccine, “Dow Rab,” designed to protect against dog bites.
The vaccine is now accessible through a simple phone call within Sindh province, with plans to extend it nationwide. Orders placed are fulfilled within 48 hours, as confirmed by the university’s spokesperson.
The launch of “Dow Rab” was officiated by DUHS Vice-Chancellor Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy during a modest ceremony. He announced the distribution of 30,000 doses produced at the Dow Institute of Life Sciences (DILS) on the Ojha campus using imported raw materials.
Professor Quraishy voiced optimism about future production using locally sourced raw materials despite current reliance on imports from China. He revealed ambitions to manufacture an additional 170,000 doses of the vaccine.
Professor Quraishy shared insights into Dow University’s journey towards commercial production of the anti-rabies vaccine, marking a milestone after extensive research and adherence to regulatory requirements. He revealed the vaccine’s affordability, priced at Rs1,500 for the complete course.
A strategic partnership was also established between Dow University and Muller & Phipps through a Letter of Interest (LoI), ensuring the phased nationwide distribution of “Dow Rab.”
In Pakistan, dog bites affect approximately a million people annually, leading to thousands of rabies-related deaths. The National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad estimates the country’s annual need for over 2 million anti-rabies vaccines, largely imported, especially from India.
Pakistan faces a critical shortage of these vaccines, exacerbated by financial disputes and the devaluation of the Pakistani rupee. This initiative by Dow University aims to address the dire need for the vaccine and stabilize prices through local manufacturing.
