DRAP Recalls Suspected Fake Anti-Rabies Vaccine in Pakistan

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued a product recall alert for a suspected counterfeit anti-rabies vaccine, “Shore-Rab,” which has been identified in the market.

The vaccine, reportedly produced by an Indian manufacturer, lacks DRAP registration and carries the batch number “RO10821.”

DRAP highlights the significant health dangers this unregistered vaccine poses, especially to individuals who have suffered dog bites. The use of such unverified vaccines could escalate the risk of rabies infections due to questionable quality and safety standards.

Authorities dispatched the alert to DRAP’s field agents, provincial drug authorities, health professionals, and pharmacies to initiate an immediate check and removal of the product from their inventories.

DRAP has also initiated a comprehensive investigation into the distribution channels of this counterfeit vaccine. It is conducting a market surveillance operation to pinpoint and halt the distribution of this fake batch. Medical professionals receive instructions to avoid using the “Shore-Rab” vaccine on dog bite victims.

Pharmacies and distributors are required to report any counterfeit vaccine findings to DRAP without delay, ensuring a swift response to mitigate any public health risks.