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Counterfeit Abhayrab Vaccine Batch No Longer in Circulation: Indian Immunologicals

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Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a major vaccine manufacturer in the country, has stated that a counterfeit batch of its human anti-rabies vaccine, Abhayrab, is no longer available in the market. The clarification follows a recent advisory issued by Australian health authorities cautioning about the circulation of a fake batch in India since November 1, 2023. Responding to the advisory, IIL described it as overly cautious and said the issue had already been identified and addressed. In an official statement released on Saturday (December 27, 2025), the company said the counterfeit involved Abhayrab batch number KA24014, manufactured in March 2024 with an expiry date of February 2027. The anomaly was detected by early January 2025, after which swift action was taken, it added. Earlier, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation had warned that travellers vaccinated with Abhayrab in India after November 1, 2023, should treat the vaccination as invalid and begin a fresh immunisation schedule. Rabies, a viral disease transmitted from animals to humans, affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, timely vaccination following exposure can effectively prevent the disease. IIL highlighted that it has been producing the anti-rabies vaccine since 2000 and has supplied over 210 million doses across India and more than 40 countries, maintaining around a 40 per cent share of the domestic market. According to the company, the counterfeit was limited to a single batch and involved a packaging irregularity. Upon detection, IIL immediately informed regulatory authorities and law enforcement agencies, filed a formal complaint and coordinated with officials to prevent further circulation. The company reiterated that this was an isolated incident and that the fake stock has since been removed from the supply chain. Reassuring doctors and the public, IIL stressed that all vaccines manufactured in India undergo mandatory testing and release by the Central Drugs Laboratory before being made available for use. “Vaccines supplied through government channels and authorised distributors continue to be safe and meet quality standards,” said Sunil Tiwari, vice-president and head of quality management at IIL. He added that Abhayrab is produced in compliance with World Health Organization Good Manufacturing Practices and relevant pharmacopeial norms. The company further noted that the vaccine is approved for both pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis against rabies and is supplied to public health systems as well as private healthcare providers. Each batch, it said, is cleared by the National Control Laboratory, which is WHO-Geneva pre-qualified under India’s National Regulatory Authority. Meanwhile, earlier this month, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued travel health alerts for India and Haiti after cases of rabies were reported among travellers returning from these countries. The advisory urged travellers to avoid contact with dogs, cats and wild animals. Source: The Hindu

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WHO Report Finds Less Than 5% of Disease-Focused Genomic Studies Conducted in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

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A recent global analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a sharp imbalance in disease-focused genomic research, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) accounting for less than five per cent of such studies worldwide. According to the WHO, more than 6,500 genomic clinical studies were registered globally between 1990 and 2024 through its International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. The number of studies rose sharply after 2010, driven by rapid advancements in genome sequencing technologies, reduced costs, and expanding clinical applications. Despite this growth, over 80 per cent of genomic research remains concentrated in high-income countries. China emerged as the leading country in terms of the total number of registered genomic clinical studies over the past three decades, followed by the United States and Italy. India ranked among the top 20 countries globally. However, the report noted that LMICs are rarely in leadership roles within such research. India participated in 235 studies, while Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria featured in 38, 17, and 14 studies respectively—mostly as part of multi-country collaborations rather than as lead partners. The analysis, titled “Human genomics technologies in clinical studies: the research landscape,” highlighted that cancer, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders together account for more than 75 per cent of all genomic studies globally. While these areas were early adopters of genomic approaches, the report flagged a major gap in research on infectious diseases. Communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria represented just three per cent of all genomic studies, despite their significant contribution to the global disease burden—particularly in low-resource settings. The authors described this as a missed opportunity to use genomics to better understand disease susceptibility, treatment response, and host–pathogen interactions. The WHO study also pointed to demographic gaps in genomic research. Over three-quarters of studies focused on adults aged 18 to 64, while only 4.6 per cent targeted children and just 3.3 per cent involved older adults. Calling for urgent action, the WHO urged more inclusive, geographically balanced, and locally relevant genomic research. Recommendations included greater investment in genomic infrastructure and research capacity in underrepresented regions, stronger leadership from LMIC-based institutions, better alignment of research priorities with local disease burdens, and increased inclusion of children, older adults, and other underrepresented populations. Source: PTI

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Climate change–driven heat and humidity may worsen child stunting in South Asia by 2050: Study

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Rising temperatures combined with increasing humidity due to climate change could significantly worsen child health outcomes in South Asia, potentially leading to more than three million additional cases of stunting by 2050, according to a new study. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of California, Santa Barbara, examined how exposure to extreme heat and humid conditions during pregnancy affects early childhood development in one of the world’s most densely populated regions. The findings were published in the journal Science. The study focused on “height-for-age,” a widely used measure of chronic health and nutritional status among children under five. Researchers found that exposure to hot and humid weather during pregnancy—particularly during the earliest and latest stages—was strongly linked to poorer growth outcomes in children. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to heat stress because of physiological and hormonal changes that reduce the body’s ability to regulate temperature. High humidity further intensifies this risk by limiting the body’s capacity to cool down through sweating. The researchers noted that the impacts were most severe when heat and humidity occurred together. Exposure during the third trimester showed health effects nearly four times greater than exposure to high temperatures alone. The study used the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT), which accounts for humidity, radiant heat, and airflow in addition to air temperature, to better capture real-world heat stress. The analysis also revealed demographic effects. Each additional day with a WBGT above 29°C was associated with fewer live births six to twelve months later. In contrast, days with maximum temperatures exceeding 35°C were linked to a temporary rise in births within three months, suggesting shifts in pregnancy timing and possible increases in early-stage pregnancy loss. According to the researchers, these trends align with earlier studies showing that extreme heat can lead to premature births and reduced conception rates. Hot and humid conditions, they warned, pose a greater risk to fetal development than heat alone. With climate models projecting a sharp rise in hot and humid days across South Asia under continued global warming, the study cautioned that the true health impacts of extreme weather may be underestimated if humidity is not fully considered. The research drew on child health data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and daily climate data produced by the Climate Hazards Center at UC Santa Barbara. Source: PTI  

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IHH Healthcare Targets 7,000-Bed Capacity in India by 2028

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IHH Healthcare has reiterated that it is on course to expand its hospital capacity in India to nearly 7,000 beds by 2028, marking an increase of over one-third from its current scale. The update comes after the successful completion of its open offer to acquire an additional stake in Fortis Healthcare. Following the open offer, IHH’s ownership now stands at 31.17% in Fortis Healthcare and 62.73% in Malar Hospitals. The company said the milestone positions it strongly for the next phase of growth in the Indian market. IHH Healthcare Group CEO Prem Kumar Nair said the conclusion of the Fortis open offer is a key step in advancing the group’s India strategy, aligning with its broader transformation efforts aimed at strengthening long-term resilience. He added that the company is well placed to drive innovation, enhance patient outcomes, and create sustainable value amid India’s rapidly evolving healthcare sector. Nair also highlighted that closer collaboration between Fortis Healthcare and Gleneagles Healthcare India will help unlock operational efficiencies and further improve the quality of care delivered nationwide. Echoing this outlook, Ashok Pandit, Group Chief Corporate Officer at IHH Healthcare, said the company is steadily expanding its footprint and remains committed to adding nearly 2,000 beds by 2028. Currently, IHH operates 35 hospitals with over 5,000 beds across 11 states in India, leveraging both operational and financial synergies to support its growth ambitions. Globally, IHH Healthcare has operations in 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Turkiye, India, and Greater China. Source: PTI

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Indo-German Research Finds Strong Link Between Gut Imbalance and Memory Decline

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A joint Indo-German research team has uncovered a clear biological pathway connecting imbalances in gut bacteria to memory loss, learning difficulties, and cognitive decline, according to a statement released by Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). The findings, published in the latest edition of the peer-reviewed journal BMC Biology, show that disturbances in the gut microbiome—often caused by prolonged antibiotic use or poor dietary habits—can trigger systemic inflammation that ultimately disrupts brain circuits responsible for memory and cognition. The study was conducted under a collaborative programme supported by India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The research team was led by Baby Chakrapani PS of CUSAT’s Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration and Brain Health (CENABH) and Centre for Neuroscience, along with Prof Martin Korte from the Technical University of Braunschweig and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Germany. The work formed part of doctoral research by scholar Krishnapriya under Chakrapani’s supervision. Researchers focused on antibiotic-induced gut dysbiosis, a condition marked by an imbalance in gut microbes, and examined how it affects bodily systems beyond the digestive tract. They found that disrupted gut bacteria initiate inflammatory and oxidative processes that weaken the gut barrier. These signals then travel to the brain, altering its immune environment. According to Chakrapani, the inflammation originating in the gut does not remain localised. Instead, it influences the brain’s immune cells, known as microglia. These cells normally help maintain brain health by clearing debris and selectively pruning weak synapses. However, under prolonged inflammatory stress linked to gut dysbiosis, microglia become overactive. Prof Korte explained that this overactivation causes microglia to eliminate not just weak synaptic connections but also healthy ones that are essential for learning and memory. This excessive synaptic pruning was associated with measurable impairments in memory and learning tasks. The researchers noted that gut dysbiosis is becoming increasingly common due to widespread antibiotic use, highly processed diets, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep—all of which reduce microbial diversity in the gut. Emphasising the broader implications of the findings, Korte said gut health should not be viewed solely in terms of digestion, as it also plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health. CUSAT said the study opens up potential intervention strategies, including careful antibiotic use, targeted probiotics, and balanced nutrition, to help protect both gut and brain function. Chakrapani added that the research represents an important step toward understanding the complex gut–brain connection. The team plans to explore whether restoring gut microbial balance can reverse cognitive impairments and whether similar mechanisms contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Source: PTI

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Licences of 176 Retailers, 39 Wholesalers Cancelled in Maharashtra Over Substandard Medicines

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Maharashtra has taken strong action against the sale of poor-quality drugs, cancelling the licences of 176 retail pharmacies and 39 wholesalers over the past year, State Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal informed the Assembly on December 10, 2025. Responding in writing to a question raised by BJP MLA Amit Satam and others, Zirwal stated that the FDA had launched a special crackdown, during which samples of cough syrups and other medicines were collected and sent for testing. Inspections were carried out at 136 retail outlets and 93 wholesalers, with show-cause notices issued before the licence cancellations. Zirwal revealed that fake cough syrups were detected during an FDA drive in October 2024. Doctors and pharmacists were instructed not to prescribe or dispense medicines containing propranolol. Of the 36 samples tested across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Aurangabad and Nagpur, 34 failed quality checks, including drugs used for hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis, heart ailments and blood purification. Six samples of a particular paediatric cough syrup brand were also flagged for poor quality. The Minister said some medicines had altered or mixed components and were sold under new names, with fake or substandard batches even reaching government hospitals through unauthorised suppliers. A shortage of personnel contributed to weaker oversight, as 176 drug inspector posts remain vacant. Maharashtra currently has testing labs in Mumbai, Nagpur and Pune. Zirwal added that 109 inspector positions will be filled through the Maharashtra Public Service Commission, and efforts are underway to upgrade laboratories in Nashik and Pune. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Targeting TB Bacteria’s Fatty Outer Coat May Boost Drug Effectiveness: IIT Bombay–Monash Study

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Researchers from IIT Bombay and Monash University have discovered that the fatty outer coat of Mycobacterium tuberculosis—the bacteria that causes TB—plays a crucial role in helping it evade antibiotics. By altering this lipid-rich membrane, TB bacteria can survive drug treatment, especially when they enter a dormant state. Despite over a century of research, tuberculosis remains a major global threat. In 2023, 10.8 million people fell ill and 1.25 million died from the disease, with India recording more than 2.6 million cases in 2024. One of the biggest hurdles in treatment is the bacteria’s ability to slip into dormancy shortly after infection. In this phase, the bacteria remain alive but inactive, causing no symptoms and unable to spread. However, if a person’s immunity drops—due to HIV, illness or immunosuppressive medication—the bacteria can reactivate. Since standard TB drugs mainly target bacteria that are actively growing, dormant cells are far less affected and often survive long treatment cycles. The new study led by Prof Shobhna Kapoor of IIT Bombay and Prof Marie-Isabel Aguilar of Monash University examined how TB bacteria survive this drug assault. The researchers found that the dormant bacteria’s outer membrane undergoes changes that make it harder for antibiotics to penetrate. Drug concentrations needed to inhibit these dormant cells were up to ten times higher than those needed for active ones. Advanced mass spectrometry allowed the team to map more than 270 lipid molecules in the bacterial membranes, revealing significant differences between active and dormant bacterial states. According to the researchers, weakening this lipid barrier could make existing drugs far more effective. Instead of relying solely on new antibiotics, combining current treatments with molecules that disrupt the outer membrane could help kill persistent bacteria without promoting genetic resistance. Prof Kapoor noted that such an approach could shorten therapy durations and restore drug sensitivity, giving TB bacteria little room to adapt permanently. Source: PTI

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Single HPV Shot Shown to Offer Strong Protection Against Cervical Cancer, Major Study Finds

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A landmark international study suggests that one dose of the HPV vaccine may be just as effective as the standard two-dose regimen, potentially transforming cervical cancer prevention efforts worldwide. Researchers announced on Wednesday that a single human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine shot provided nearly the same level of protection against the virus strains most linked to cervical cancer. HPV is a widespread sexually transmitted infection, and while most cases resolve on their own, persistent infections can lead to cervical cancer and several less common cancers in both women and men. The HPV vaccine has been advised for U.S. girls since 2006, contributing to a decline in precancerous cervical conditions among women in their 20s — the first cohort vaccinated in adolescence. Still, cervical cancer remains a major global threat, causing around 340,000 deaths annually, particularly in parts of the world where vaccination access is limited. The promising findings come from a large Costa Rica-based trial led by the U.S. National Cancer Institute, involving more than 20,000 girls aged 12 to 16. Participants received one of two widely used HPV vaccines. After six months, half received a second dose while the other half were given a different childhood vaccine. Over five years of follow-up, researchers conducted regular cervical screenings and compared results with an unvaccinated control group. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study concluded that a single dose offered about 97% protection, essentially matching the effectiveness of two doses. Dr. Ruanne Barnabas of Massachusetts General Hospital, in an accompanying editorial, highlighted that while earlier studies hinted at single-dose efficacy, this research solidifies long-term confidence in the approach. “We now have the evidence and tools to eliminate cervical cancer — what’s needed is the global commitment to deploy them effectively and fairly,” Barnabas wrote. In the U.S., two doses remain the official recommendation for children aged 11 or 12, with catch-up vaccinations advised up to age 26. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 78% of teens aged 13 to 17 have received at least one dose. Worldwide, however, fewer than one-third of adolescent girls are vaccinated, according to the World Health Organization, which has already begun supporting single-dose strategies to improve coverage. Researchers noted that the study did not assess protection against other HPV-related cancers, such as those of the head and neck, and stressed that longer-term monitoring is still necessary. Source: AP

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NMC–ICMR to Roll Out PhD Programmes to Strengthen India’s Clinical Research and Medical Innovation

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The National Medical Commission (NMC), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is set to introduce new PhD programmes and intensify clinical research efforts to boost indigenous innovation in medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Announcing the initiative at the 3rd convocation of Bhaikaka University in Karamsad, Anand, NMC chairman Dr. Abhijat Sheth said the move aims to fortify India’s medical research landscape and encourage innovation-led healthcare advancements. He also shared that 18,000 additional medical seats have been approved nationwide, with parallel initiatives to expand faculty capacity and ensure equitable, high-quality medical education. Highlighting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Dr. Sheth emphasised the urgent need for preventive healthcare, self-care practices and the ATCOM module on professionalism as part of the commission’s updated training framework. Citing lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, he stressed the importance of preparing future medical professionals for public health emergencies. At the convocation, 496 students from undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes received their degrees, while 10 students were honoured with gold medals for academic excellence. The ceremony was attended by BU president Dr. Gauri Trivedi, provost Dr. Abhay Dharamsi, and other officials. It also featured the 20th H M Patel Memorial Lecture, delivered by paediatrician and public health specialist Dr. Pravitra Mohan, who spoke on “Equitable Healthcare in India: Leading the Change.” Source: TNN

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Uranium detected in Delhi’s groundwater: New report sparks major public-health alarm

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A new assessment of Delhi’s groundwater has revealed a worrying rise in uranium contamination, placing the national capital among the top three affected regions in India after Punjab and Haryana. The Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025 released by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) shows that 13–15% of the city’s water samples now contain uranium levels exceeding the permissible limit of 30 ppb, raising red flags over drinking-water safety and long-term health implications, according to a Times of India report. Rising uranium levels: What the latest findings reveal The new report highlights a steady and concerning upward trend in uranium presence across Delhi: In 2020, uranium levels above the safe threshold were detected in 11.7% of samples, including a particularly alarming reading of 89.4 ppb from a tubewell in the North West district. By 2024, six districts — North, North West, South, South East, South West, and West — had consistently reported samples with unsafe uranium levels, contributing to a citywide contamination share of 10.7%. The 2025 assessment now indicates an even higher percentage of unsafe samples, signalling worsening groundwater conditions. Two localities — Auchandi in Narela (42 ppb) and Nizampur in Kanjhawala (46.5 ppb) — have been identified as emerging hotspots. Environmental groups demand data transparency and action The findings have prompted several environmental organisations to push for public disclosure of water-quality records and enforcement of treatment protocols. The group Earth Warrior, in a letter to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, warned that uranium contamination is occurring alongside high nitrate, fluoride, and salinity levels, creating a hazardous mix of pollutants. The group also highlighted systemic dependence on groundwater: The Delhi Jal Board operates around 5,500 tubewells that collectively supply nearly 450 million litres per day (mld) of semi-treated or untreated water to the public—making the situation even more urgent. National context: Uranium contamination rising post-monsoon Across India, CGWB analysed 3,754 groundwater samples during pre- and post-monsoon periods in 2024. Uranium above the safe limit was found in: 6.71% of pre-monsoon samples 7.91% of post-monsoon samples This slight increase after monsoon rains indicates that hydrogeochemical changes and leaching processes may be intensifying contamination. Punjab remains the most affected state, followed by Haryana and Delhi. Health hazards linked to uranium in drinking water The report underscores the severe health impacts of consuming water contaminated with uranium — a substance that is both a heavy metal and a radioactive element. Its major harm stems from chemical toxicity rather than radiation. Long-term exposure can lead to: 1. Kidney damage (most common) Uranium is known to accumulate in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and potentially causing chronic kidney disease. 2. Bone and skeletal disorders The metal can settle in bones, contributing to weakness, deformities, and long-term skeletal changes. 3. Neurological complications Research indicates possible effects on memory, behavioral functions, cognitive clarity, and the nervous system after prolonged exposure. 4. Increased cancer risk While natural uranium emits low radiation, extended consumption may slightly elevate the risk of certain cancers. 5. Higher vulnerability in children Infants and young children are at greater risk. Exposure can harm bone development, growth patterns, and cognitive functions. 6. Digestive and general health issues High concentrations may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach irritation, and may interfere with liver function and blood chemistry. Additional groundwater concerns: Salinity and agricultural impact Beyond uranium, Delhi faces a significant problem with salinity. The report notes that the city recorded a sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) of 179.8, placing it among the highest in India. This means: 1.11% of areas now have groundwater unfit for irrigation 7.23% show excess salinity or high electrical conductivity Such conditions degrade soil quality, reduce farm productivity, and enable toxic elements to build up in crops—posing further risks to public health. CGWB response and the way forward The CGWB has stated that it issues bi-weekly alerts to state agencies about groundwater quality variations to support timely mitigation and raise public awareness. Experts now emphasize the need for: Comprehensive mapping of uranium-prone zones Transparent disclosure of real-time water-quality data Expansion of water-treatment infrastructure Reduction of groundwater dependency through surface-water alternatives Stronger policy interventions to prevent further aquifer degradation With Delhi’s reliance on groundwater continuing to grow, the rising uranium presence signals a looming water-safety crisis that demands urgent scientific, administrative, and public-health action. Source: TOI & Economic Times

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