Vaccine research and development must be strengthened by policies to promote industrialization
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The investment in vaccine research and development is substantial, with long timelines and high risks involved. This places significant financial pressure on companies, especially in the early stages of innovation. Therefore, enterprises not only require government funding during the initial R&D phase but also need policy support, such as government first-purchase agreements and priority procurement, during the industrialization stage.
Recently, the State Council approved in principle the implementation of major scientific and technological projects aimed at combating infectious diseases like AIDS and viral hepatitis. Wang Nan, Deputy General Manager of Beijing Kexing Biological Products Co., Ltd., remarked, “This is a project that benefits the people and future generations.â€
According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the goals of the special project during the “Eleventh Five-Year Plan†include breakthroughs in key technologies for new vaccines and therapeutic drugs, the development of 40 high-efficiency diagnostic reagents, 15 types of vaccines and drugs, and the creation of standardized Chinese and Western medicine treatment programs. The initiative also aims to establish 10 prevention and control technology platforms comparable to those in developed countries and to build a technical system for effectively managing major infectious diseases like AIDS and hepatitis.
Zhang Xiaohua, Deputy General Manager of Liaoning Chengda Biotechnology Co., Ltd., explained that viral hepatitis includes several types, each with different transmission routes and health impacts. For example, Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through the digestive tract, while Hepatitis B and C are mainly spread through blood, sexual contact, and mother-to-child transmission. These can lead to chronic infections, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if left untreated.
Statistics show that over 120 million people in China are infected with Hepatitis B, and around 40 million with Hepatitis C. The number of people living with HIV is increasing rapidly, and without effective measures, it could surpass 10 million by 2010. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent viral hepatitis. The national immunization program has included the Hepatitis B vaccine since 2002, and efforts are ongoing for Hepatitis A and E vaccines.
In the case of AIDS, despite global efforts, no safe and effective vaccine has been developed yet due to the high variability of HIV. Researchers are working on broad-spectrum vaccines, but challenges remain in understanding immune responses and developing effective animal models.
Other preventive measures include promoting safe injection practices, educating on sexual health, and maintaining good hygiene. Controlling the spread of HIV also requires regular testing, behavioral interventions, and compassionate care for those already infected.
China has made significant progress in vaccine development, including for SARS and avian influenza. Companies like Beijing Kexing and Chengda Bio have successfully developed and marketed various vaccines, contributing to public health improvements.
Government investment in major science and technology projects will drive innovation and reshape the market. As production technologies advance, better and more affordable vaccines will emerge, creating opportunities for companies focused on innovation.
With the growing demand for vaccines, combined vaccines are becoming more important. While the U.S. has already implemented some combination vaccines, China is catching up, focusing on improving industrialization rather than research capabilities.
In conclusion, the development and distribution of vaccines play a critical role in controlling infectious diseases. With continued investment and policy support, China is well-positioned to strengthen its public health infrastructure and improve disease prevention on a large scale.