ISLAMABAD: Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) has introduced an indigenous anti-rabies vaccine named “Dow Rab,” offering hope to people bitten by dogs across Pakistan.
DUHS Vice-Chancellor Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy emphasized the vaccine’s crucial role in saving lives and pledged to ensure its widespread availability.
Developed by the Dow Institute of Life Sciences (DILS) at Ojha campus, the vaccine initially comprises 30,000 doses, made available through an efficient distribution network. This breakthrough promises relief to several people exposed to the threat of rabies.
During a ceremony, Professor Quraishy reiterated the university’s commitment to self-reliance by transitioning from imported raw materials to locally sourced ingredients for vaccine production. Plans are underway to escalate production to an additional 170,000 doses, envisioning a future where Pakistan meets its own demand for anti-rabies vaccines.
Syed Izhar Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of DILS, highlighted the extensive research and regulatory processes involved in the commercial production of Dow Rab. Priced at a nominal Rs1,500 for the complete course, the vaccine underscores DUHS’s commitment to accessibility and affordability.
To ensure nationwide accessibility, DUHS has entered into a memorandum of understanding with distribution giant Muller & Phipps. This strategic partnership aims to make Dow Rab readily available across Pakistan, addressing the urgent need for rabies prevention measures.
Rabies remains a persistent threat in Pakistan, claiming thousands of lives annually. The National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad reports an annual demand for over 2 million doses of anti-rabies vaccines, with a significant portion imported from India.
