{
  "id": 5858666,
  "title": "Watch out for ‘counterfeit’ batch of rabies vaccine: Drug regulator to states",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/watch-out-for-counterfeit-batch-of-rabies-vaccine-drug-regulator-to",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-05T23:00:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express",
    "slug": "the-indian-express",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/watch-out-for-counterfeit-batch-of-rabies-vaccine-drug-regulator-to-states-10865044/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "India's top drug regulator has cautioned states against a particular batch of the widely used rabies vaccine, Abhayrab, after samples from Delhi earlier this year were discovered to be ineffective and improperly labeled. The vaccine's packaging contained numerous errors, including incorrect punctuation, altered font and spacing, and discrepancies in the company's logo, indicating it was not a legitimate product produced by Indian Immunologicals. On August 27, 2026, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) instructed all State Drugs Controllers to keep a close watch on the movement, distribution, and availability of this specific batch of Abhayrab and take necessary regulatory steps. The CDSCO emphasized that the involved batch was never exported from the country.\n\nIn 2025, the same vaccine faced scrutiny from international drug regulators, such as those from the UK, US, and Australia, over fears of counterfeit batches. Consequently, several nations advised those who received Abhayrab to receive an additional dose as a precautionary measure. This concern was also acknowledged during market surveillance. As part of the investigation, four individuals were apprehended by the Delhi Police, with further legal action being pursued by the relevant authorities. While numerous rabies vaccine brands are available in India, manufactured by both domestic and foreign companies, Abhayrab holds a significant market share, accounting for nearly 40% of the market.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [
    "DCGI warns states about faulty Abhayrab rabies vaccine batch",
    "Incorrect labeling and packaging indicate counterfeit product",
    "Four arrested, further legal action expected"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}