Shantha Biotechnics begins commercial production at new unit

Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, today said commercial production at its affiliate Shantha Biotechnics' new vaccines manufacturing facility began on May 25.
The new facility, located in Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Muppireddipalli near here, has the latest technology to produce vaccines that meet global standards of quality, the company said in a statement.
Construction of the 19,000 sq-meter facility began in 2010 and the site has received approvals from the Indian regulatory authorities and the World Health Organisation.
Shailesh Ayyangar, Country Chair and Managing Director - Sanofi India Ltd, said, "With this dedicated site for vaccines, the company is reinforcing its commitment towards 'Make in India' and disease prevention and public health in India and also across the world."

"This site is a part of over Rs 5,500 crore investment undertaken by Sanofi since acquisition of Shantha Biotechnics in 2009. We thank Government of Telangana for their encouragement and support in our endeavours," Ayyangar added.
The new filling facility will be used for producing vaccines against multiple diseases starting with Shan5 (a five-in-one, high-quality vaccine that provides effective protection for children from 6 weeks of age against five diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Hib and hepatitis B (DTP - HepB - Hib)) and pediatric pentavalent vaccine, which provides protection against five diseases in one shot.
Mahesh Bhalgat, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Shantha Biotechnics, India, said, "At Shantha Biotechnics, our mission is to develop, produce and market affordable vaccines. We are committed to providing our customers with the assurance of products that meet best-in-class international standards for purity, potency and safety.