Europe Bolsters COVID-19 vaccine Supply wiht 4 Million dose Hipra Agreement
European authorities are expanding their COVID-19 vaccine portfolio with an agreement to acquire 4 million doses of a recombinant protein vaccine developed by the Spanish pharmaceutical company Hipra, specifically targeting the LP.8.1 variant. the move aims to ensure continued protection, particularly for vulnerable populations, in the face of evolving variants like the one described as “Frankenstein” by European Commissioner for Equality, Preparation and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib.
the agreement,announced recently,highlights a commitment to diversifying the therapeutic arsenal against COVID-19 and strengthening Europe’s strategic independence in vaccine production. David Mastered, President and CEO of hipra, stated the contract demonstrates confidence in the company’s ability to contribute to public health, emphasizing that the entire process – from research to manufacturing – takes place within Europe, guaranteeing quality and security.
David Nogareda of Hipra added that the agreement reinforces not only the response to current COVID-19 challenges but also Europe’s preparedness for future health crises. Commissioner Lahbib echoed this sentiment, noting the vaccine’s “integral approach, from research to production, entirely in Europe,” which strengthens the continent’s health security.
Currently, 14 countries participate in the EU Joint Acquisition Agreement, a voluntary mechanism facilitating the joint purchase of medical solutions and improving pandemic preparedness. This latest contract diversifies access for European citizens by adding a recombinant protein vaccine option to existing mRNA vaccines.
The Hipra vaccine, recently granted marketing authorization by the European Commission, has demonstrated immunity against the LP.8.1 variant and cross-protection against emerging variants including NB.1.8.1 and XFG. It is indeed designed for single-dose administration and can be stored between 2°C and 8°C for up to 12 months.
Studies indicate the vaccine is safe, with fewer side effects compared to mRNA vaccines, and generates a strong, lasting immune response with broad cross-reactivity against emerging variants. The agreement with Hipra is a critically important step towards addressing the challenges faced during the pandemic – including export restrictions and supply chain dependencies – and ensuring a secure, domestically-produced vaccine supply for Europe.
