Seoul: South Korea announced the development of the world's first recombinant protein-based anthrax vaccine, aiming to reduce side effects and enhance national self-sufficiency. This breakthrough vaccine, a collaboration between the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) and private firm GC Biopharma Corp., is expected to pave the way for potential export opportunities.

According to Anadolu Agency, this innovative vaccine marks a significant departure from traditional anthrax vaccines by eliminating the risk of exposure to toxins produced by Bacillus anthracis, a high-risk pathogen known for its potential use in bioterrorism. The newly developed vaccine, named Barythrax Inj., received regulatory approval from South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in April, allowing the country to produce its own vaccine supply for the first time, thereby ending its dependence on imports.

Kim Gab-jung, the director general of the KDCA's department of disease diagnosis and analysis, emphasized the importance of this achievement in reducing vaccine import costs and improving response time during national emergencies such as bioterrorism. He stated, "Beyond infectious disease preparedness, the vaccine's development represents a major contribution to strengthening the country's overall public health security."

Previously, South Korea relied on the US-made anthrax vaccine, Biothrax, to meet its needs. Despite the absence of anthrax cases since it was designated a notifiable disease in 2000, the development of a domestic vaccine underscores the country's proactive approach to biosecurity and public health.