Vaccine innovation development drives national health independence
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The development of vaccine innovations by Indonesian biopharmaceutical companies is driving national health independence and improving the quality of life for the population. Indra Lamora, Director of the Vaccine and Anti-Infectious Business Unit at Etram, stated that Etana remains committed to contributing to increased immunisation coverage in Indonesia by providing high-quality and relevant vaccine innovations. Through the development of the HPV vaccine, local production of PCV-13, and the official launch of the meningitis vaccine, Etana aims to make a tangible contribution to public health, said Indra in a press statement received on Wednesday. Additionally, the PCV-13 vaccine has been produced domestically to prevent pneumonia in children, forming part of the Indonesian government’s national immunisation programme. This innovation serves as a concrete step towards reducing morbidity and mortality rates from childhood pneumonia. Etana has also expanded its vaccine portfolio with the introduction of the meningitis vaccine to support the immunisation needs of the wider public, including high-risk groups, and to facilitate the safety of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Furthermore, Etana continues to promote public awareness regarding the importance of immunisation while supporting national vaccine independence with products that meet Halal certification standards from the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH). The company emphasised that innovation must also adhere to global standards regarding quality, safety, and efficacy to ensure that products meet not only national regulations but are also capable of competing on an international level.