Takeda to distribute Kaketsuken’s seasonal influenza vaccine in Japan

The Japanese firm will continue to distribute the seasonal influenza vaccine, Influenza HA Vaccine ‘SEIKEN’, manufactured by Denka Seiken.

The Preventive Vaccination Law in Japan noted that elders should receive regular vaccination as it can protect against influenza infection and suppress the severity of symptoms.

Typically, seasonal influenza occurs from early winter through early spring and there is a risk of progression to pneumonia, bronchitis and life-threatening severe complications, particularly in elders.

Takeda Japan Vaccine Business Unit head Hitoshi Oinuma said: "We are pleased to have concluded a sales agreement on seasonal influenza vaccine with Kaketsuken.

"The agreement will bolster our supply of influenza vaccine and allow us to meet the demand of as many patients and medical professionals as possible.

"This agreement reinforces Takeda’s commitment to public health in Japan."

Last year, Takeda secured approval for the new drug application (NDA) of Cell Culture-based Influenza vaccine for prevention of pandemic influenza, and is currently developing a cell culture-based seasonal influenza vaccine.

Image: Takeda Midosuji Building, the head office of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, in Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan. Photo: courtesy of J o.