|
 An estimated 5.7 million deaths a year could be averted under the
deal to send 450 million doses to 80 countries between 2017-2020,
the agency added.
"We will be able to procure pentavalent vaccine to protect children
... for less than $1 a dose," Shanelle Hall, director of UNICEF's
supply and procurement division, told a news briefing.
The vaccine, a cornerstone of routine immunization program, will
protect children from five major infections in one shot: diphtheria,
tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenza type b
known as Hib - a bacteria that causes meningitis, pneumonia and
otitis.
The six suppliers were named as: Biology E, Jenssen, LG Life
Sciences, Panacea Biotec Ltd, Serum Institute of India, and Shantha
Biotechs.
The deal, which took 16 years to reach, will bring down the average
price to 85 cents a dose, half the amount that UNICEF currently
pays, generating savings for donors and governments.
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It took time to expand a base of vaccine suppliers, which will
reduce the risk of shortages, GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance said in a
statement. GAVI and the Gates Foundation joined UNICEF in securing
the multi-year suppliers' contract.
(Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
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