Sanofi and Biovac Lead Polio Vaccine Production in Africa

Sanofi and Biovac have announced a collaboration to manufacture inactivated polio vaccines (IPV) in Africa. This partnership aims to cater to the needs of over 40 African nations and makes Biovac the first African producer of IPV. The agreement supports the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s goal of producing 60 percent of local vaccines in Africa by 2040.

Thomas Triomphe, Sanofi’s Executive Vice President of Vaccines, highlighted the significance of the partnership. He pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted many routine pediatric vaccination programs, making it crucial to catch up to prevent an increase in polio cases globally. He emphasized that establishing the manufacturing partnership now is essential for Biovac’s future capabilities in international tenders.

Biovac's CEO, Dr. Morena Makhoana, expressed pride in the partnership, which will enable Biovac to play a pivotal role in the eradication of polio in Africa by making IPV doses more accessible.

Since 1988, Sanofi has been a vital partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and has provided over 1.5 billion doses of IPV through GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance. This alliance aims to vaccinate populations in more than 70 of the poorest countries to eradicate polio. Under the new agreement, Sanofi will continue producing the bulk of IPV, while Biovac will handle the final stages of formulation, filling, packaging, and delivery of millions of doses to UNICEF for GAVI-supported countries in Africa.

Biovac, established in 2003 in collaboration with the South African government, is dedicated to reviving local vaccine development and manufacturing in Southern Africa. It is renowned for its expertise in developing and manufacturing vaccines and other biologicals for Africa and beyond.

Polio is a highly contagious disease primarily affecting children under five, causing temporary or permanent paralysis and death. It is a preventable disease through immunization, as there is no cure. The virus is spread through fecal matter or respiratory droplets from an infected person. Most infected individuals show no symptoms or have mild symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, muscle aches, neck stiffness, and limb pain. In severe cases, polio can lead to irreversible paralysis.

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has significantly reduced polio cases worldwide by immunizing 2.5 billion children over the last 30 years, achieving a 99 percent reduction in cases. By the end of 2023, polio remained endemic in only Afghanistan and Pakistan. The global efforts to eradicate polio have saved nearly 20 million people from paralysis.

Sanofi is an innovative global healthcare company focused on transforming the practice of medicine and improving people’s lives through scientific advancements. The company provides life-saving vaccines and treatment options to millions worldwide, prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility.

This partnership between Sanofi and Biovac is a pivotal step toward eradicating polio in Africa and ensuring the continent has the necessary manufacturing capabilities to meet future vaccine demands.