Health ยท GS2
Indigenous tetanus and adult diphtheria vaccine
One line
The Central Research Institute launched an indigenously manufactured tetanus and adult diphtheria vaccine for supply under the Universal Immunisation Programme.
Summary
Domestic public-sector vaccine production can improve supply security and outbreak readiness. Product launch and dose commitments must still be followed by quality testing, timely procurement, cold-chain delivery, and coverage data.
PYQ pattern
UPSC tests vaccination through disease agents, transmission, public-health delivery, and cold chains. Review the official UPSC question-paper archive.
Core notes
- The Central Research Institute is located at Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh.
- PIB said 55 lakh doses were planned for supply by April 2026.
- The combined Td vaccine protects against tetanus and diphtheria for age groups covered by the immunisation schedule.
Prelims lens
- Tetanus is caused by a bacterial toxin and does not spread person to person in the usual way.
- Diphtheria can spread through respiratory transmission.
- Vaccines under the Universal Immunisation Programme are administered according to a defined schedule.
MCQ 1
Consider the following statements:
- Tetanus is commonly acquired when bacterial spores contaminate a wound.
- Diphtheria may spread through respiratory droplets.
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Reveal answerHide answer
C
The two diseases have different transmission patterns, which is why prevention combines vaccination with other measures.
MCQ 2
The Universal Immunisation Programme is administered by:
- A. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
- B. Ministry of Mines
- C. Election Commission
- D. Finance Commission
Reveal answerHide answer
A
It is a national public-health programme under the Union Health Ministry.
Mains
Question, 10 marks, 150 words: How does domestic vaccine manufacturing contribute to health security, and what delivery gaps can still limit impact?
Approach:
- Explain supply security and public procurement.
- Discuss technology, quality, cost, and outbreak readiness.
- Examine cold chain, hesitancy, missed doses, and surveillance.
- Suggest reliable forecasts, adverse-event monitoring, and coverage audits.