The results of the Phase III clinical trials of the Rotavac vaccine, a culmination of efforts spanning 28 years, released at an international conference pegged its efficacy at 56 per cent in the first year of life. While announcing the results, the former Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, M KBhan said that Rotavac significantly reduced severe rotavirus diarrhoea by more than half.

However, the commercial production of the vaccine would take some time as it is yet to get clearance from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech, which has been associated in the development of vaccine candidates and clinical trials, has announced a price of USD 1 per dose--much cheaper than other rotavirus vaccines available in the market.

Officials said there were two licensed rotavirus vaccines introduced in more than 40 countries but they remain out of reach for many in the developing world. Rotavac is an oral vaccine administered to infants in a three-dose course at the ages of six, 10 and 14 weeks alongside routine immunisations recommended at these ages.