ICMR Begins Phase I Trials of Indigenous KFD Vaccine After CDSCO Approval

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has initiated Phase I clinical trials of an improved indigenous vaccine against Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) following CDSCO approval.

About Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) Vaccine

• The vaccine is being developed by the ICMR – National Institute of Virology (ICMR–NIV) in collaboration with Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) as a fully indigenous two-dose adjuvanted inactivated formulation administered 28 days apart.
• Clinical Progress: Animal challenge and toxicity studies are complete, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)-grade material has been produced, and Phase I trials have begun after approval from CDSCO.
  • In phase I clinical trials, typically dozens of participants are recruited. In this phase, the vaccine dose level and safety are tested
• Public Health Significance: The vaccine strengthens preparedness against tick-borne zoonotic diseases under the One Health approach in Western Ghats States.

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About Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)

• Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a tick-borne viral haemorrhagic fever caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV), first identified in 1956 in Karnataka.
• Endemic Regions: The disease is endemic to the Western Ghats, particularly in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Maharashtra, affecting forest-dependent communities.
• Transmission: KFD spreads primarily through the bite of infected forest ticks, especially Haemaphysalis spinigera.
  • It may also transmit through contact with infected animals, particularly sick or dead monkeys.
• Symptoms and Treatment: It can cause high fever, severe muscle pain, bleeding manifestations and low blood pressure.
  • There is no specific antiviral treatment; management is supportive, and states provide free medical care.
• Prevention Measures: Preventive steps include vaccination, use of tick repellents such as DEPA oil, protective clothing for forest workers and surveillance of monkey deaths.

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