Indian Immunologicals Ltd has clarified that no part of the suspected counterfeit Abhayrab rabies vaccine batch seized in Delhi was exported, easing concerns about the possible circulation of fake doses in international markets.
The clarification came after authorities seized vials labelled as Abhayrab from a residential premises in Delhi. The drug regulator had earlier flagged the seized batch as not of standard quality and suspected it to be spurious.
Indian Immunologicals, which manufactures the Abhayrab vaccine, said the seized vials were not part of any authorised export shipment. The company’s clarification is significant because rabies vaccines are used widely for post-exposure treatment and any counterfeit product entering the supply chain can pose a serious public health risk.
The suspected fake vaccine has been under scrutiny after samples were found at an unlicensed premises in Delhi. Authorities have been examining the source of the vials and how they entered circulation.
The development has also prompted closer attention to the movement and distribution of pharmaceutical products. Drug regulators and enforcement agencies are expected to continue monitoring the supply chain to prevent unauthorised medicines and vaccines from reaching patients.
Officials have also advised caution regarding the use of vaccine products whose authenticity or supply chain cannot be established.
The manufacturer’s latest statement indicates that the suspected counterfeit batch seized in Delhi was not exported, limiting concerns over its possible distribution through authorised international channels.
The investigation into the seized vials and their source remains important for establishing how the counterfeit products were manufactured and distributed.
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