India, EU to develop new influenza vaccine
28th August, 2018Category: Health, International, Science and Technology
The Indian government and the European Union (EU) will collaborate for Rs 240 crore research programme to develop a "Next Generation Influenza Vaccine" to protect citizens worldwide. The EU and the Indian government's Department of Biotechnology (DBT), have also committed 15 million Euors each to fund this joint program named "Horizon 2020". While the projects require three applicants from both three European member states and India respectively, the call which will remain open until 16 April, 2019, also allows applicants from other countries to join the EU-India consortia.
The outcome of the project is expected to contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 to ensure health and well-being for all and boost the Indian National Health Mission. Addressing seasonal flu vaccination is also high on the EU health agenda with the European Commission urging EU member states to commit to vaccinating 75 per cent of risk groups against seasonal flu each year.
Read More: First Post, Business Standard