HERA signs Joint Procurement for diphtheria therapeutic - European Commission Skip to main content
Public Health
  • News announcement
  • 6 August 2024
  • Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority
  • 1 min read

HERA signs Joint Procurement for diphtheria therapeutic

Today, HERA signed a joint procurement framework contract for the supply of a medicine to treat diphtheria. The contract, signed with Scandinavian Biopharma Distribution AB, will facilitate the purchase of 1600 vials of Diphtheria Antitoxin by eight EU Member States.

Ensuring access to medicines is vital for the European Health Union. This joint procurement demonstrates the EU and its Member States' commitment to protecting the health of European citizens against cross-border health threats. Diphtheria, though rare, is a serious infection that can be deadly, particularly for children. Ensuring timely access to treatment is crucial for those affected.

While diphtheria remains rare in the EU due to effective vaccination programs, occasional cases still occur. With the global decrease in cases, including in the EU/EEA, the number of manufacturers producing diphtheria antitoxin has diminished, making it more challenging for Member States to obtain the necessary medicine.

HERA’s joint procurement aims to address this issue by facilitating Member States' access to the antitoxin. This voluntary mechanism allows participating countries to jointly procure medical countermeasures, complementing national procurement efforts. The goal is to ensure equitable access to specific medical treatments and improve supply security, contributing to the prevention and preparedness for potential future health crises.

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Publication date
6 August 2024
Author
Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority