FDA Fast Tracks Zika Vaccine

The FDA granted ‘fast track’ status to TAK-426, Takeda’s Zika vaccine, in hopes of easing the international public health emergency.

Takeda / Image: Arnd Wiegmann
Takeda / Image: Arnd Wiegmann

A recent Reuters article noted that the FDA has granted ‘fast track’ status to a vaccine for Zika, the virus that’s spread by mosquitos. The vaccine, TAK-426, was developed by Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd, and it’s currently in the early stages of development and testing on 240 patients from 18 to 49 years of age.

Fast track status means the FDA is assisting in the development of the vaccine and expediting the review process. It is reserved for rare circumstances where serious conditions have no proven treatments. The World Health Organization declared the Zika outbreak an international health emergency back in 2016 when the virus became associated with severe birth defects.

Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—Packaging World editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
Smart Filling Equipment Selection Guide
Discover the six critical factors that determine filling equipment success and avoid costly selection mistakes that drain profits.
Read More
Smart Filling Equipment Selection Guide