Cervavac, India’s first indigenously developed gender-neutral quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (qHPV), developed by the Serum Institute of India (SII), has received prequalification by the World Health Organization (WHO).

This regulatory milestone marks the 32nd WHO prequalification for products/biologicals received by SII.

Inclusion on the WHO List of prequalified vaccines allows Cervavac to be procured by United Nations (UN) agencies.

This recombinant qHPV vaccine targets HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18. It is indicated for girls and boys aged 9 through 26 years.

Speaking in this regard, Adar Poonawalla, Chief Executive Officer, SII, said, "WHO prequalification of Cervavac is an important step in strengthening the global response to HPV. This milestone reflects the effectiveness of the vaccine and creates the opportunity for countries to prevent HPV-related risks. We are pleased to see this indigenously developed vaccine reach this achievement, and look forward to contributing to immunisation coverage, advancing global healthcare."

Previously approved for its use in India by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), Cervavac is administered for the prevention of diseases caused by the 4 HPV types. This includes the prevention of anal cancer in boys and young men, and cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers in girls and young women.

It is also indicated in preventing genital warts, as applicable to the indicated population.