Kerala's private hospitals struggling without hepatitis B vaccine; ' big sham', say experts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The hepatitis B vaccine shortage in the state is taking a toll on private hospitals. With the vaccine manufacturers stopping production, even the final stock has run out in private pharmacies across the state. The unavailability of raw materials is blamed for halting the production. The crisis is expected to be resolved by September.

One ml of the vaccine costs Rs 110. Complaints are rife about private pharmacies having stock of vaccines, making most of the crisis, by charging exorbitant prices. At the same time, vaccines are being made available to newborn babies in government hospitals.

With the disease almost under control in Kerala through the preventive vaccine, the demand for hepatitis B treatment drugs has seen a dip. Five years ago, pharmaceutical companies were selling up to 8000 doses per month. Later it was reduced to 15. To keep up with the changing demands, the companies increased the price from Rs 800 to more than Rs 2000.

If not administered the vaccine, the chances of the disease returning are high. Some allege all this as fear-mongering from manufacturers to easily complete sales of these 'high-priced' medicines. Hepatitis B is a disease that affects the liver and can even lead to death.

• Vaccination is mandatory for newborns, health workers, medical nursing students and those travelling abroad.
• Children below five years should mandatorily take three doses of vaccine.