WHO: List of contracted laboratories performing tests on behalf of the WHO vaccine prequalification programme

Extract
In 2010 the prequalification programme for vaccines has undergone a substantial revision process following the recommendations of the ad hoc committee on vaccines prequalification. One of the changes introduced was the decision to publish on the website the list of laboratories contracted by WHO to perform tests on behalf of the prequalification programme.

The independent testing of vaccines is part of the procedure for evaluation of the acceptability, in principle, of vaccines for purchase by United Nations agencies. The testing is performed to assess the consistency of final product characteristics and represents one of the decision making criteria for granting prequalification. Tests undertaken are the most relevant to reflect the quality, safety and efficacy of the vaccines. Usually potency and toxicity are tested. However, depending on the nature of the vaccines, other relevant tests can be performed. A targeted testing strategy is followed. Vaccines are expected to comply with WHO recommended requirements as well as with the UN tender specifications…

…The publication of the list of qualified laboratories contracted by WHO for specific tests is important for transparency reasons, to recognize the work performed by these laboratories in a collaborative effort with WHO and also to give access to this information to countries that can become occasional users.

List of WHO contracted laboratories performing tests on behalf of the WHO vaccine prequalification programme
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