Kozhikode: Kerala is facing a looming crisis in the availability of the rabies vaccine, with all over stocks dwindling to a mere 9,000 vials in both warehouses and Kerala Medical Services Corporation. The situation has raised concerns among health officials and the public alike, as the daily consumption rate of the vaccine stands at 800 vials. At this rate, the existing stock is expected to be depleted by the middle of next month.
The crisis has been exacerbated by delays in the tender process for procuring the equine anti-rabies vaccine, primarily due to its high cost. As a result, the government has yet to finalise the procurement, leaving the state grappling with a potentially severe shortage of this crucial vaccine.
In the event of the stock running out, health authorities may be forced to consider alternatives, such as temporarily procuring untested vaccines through the ‘Karunya’ initiative or purchasing the vaccine at a higher price from the local drug market. Both options come with their own set of challenges and risks, including concerns about the safety and efficacy of untested vaccines.
The Kerala Medical Services Corporation has been facing an uphill battle against the rising cost of the rabies vaccine. The tender rate for the vaccine has surged from Rs 152.46 to Rs 264.60 this year.
Wins Bio Product, the previous year’s supplier, emerged as the lowest bidder in the tender process this year. However, citing a 74 percent increase in their tender price, the corporation has deferred the final decision to the government. Despite the corporation’s urgent plea, and in light of the escalating number of stray dog attacks, the government has yet to make a decision, even after seven months of deliberation.
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