The European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) has signed, on the request and on behalf of 14 participating countries, a joint procurement framework contract with HIPRA, the Spanish pharmaceutical company expert in vaccines and prevention. The participating countries will be able to order up to 4 million doses of the protein-based COVID-19 vaccine BIMERVAX®, adapted to the LP.8.1 variant, as needed depending on national context and with no minimum number of doses to be bought. The contract will run for a period of up to two years, with deliveries of the vaccines in time for the current vaccination season. 

The signing took place in Brussels on Friday, October 3, between David Nogareda, President and CEO of HIPRA, and Laurent Muschel, Director of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA). 

David Nogareda, president and CEO of HIPRA and Laurent Muschel, director of Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA)

Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, said: “With a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases of the so-called “Frankenstein” variant, we need to ensure that continued protection against this disease is assured, especially to protect the most vulnerable. With a diversified portfolio of vaccines, now including access to up to 4 million doses of this protein-based vaccine, we are enhancing our preparedness and securing a supply of such necessary medical countermeasures against the ever-present threat of COVID-19. This vaccine from HIPRA follows an end-to-end approach, from R&D to production, located entirely in Europe, strengthening our strategic autonomy. We are committed to reinforcing our health security for a safer, healthier and better protected Europe.” 

While mRNA vaccines are already available, this joint procurement contract diversifies the portfolio to citizens by offering protein-based vaccines. HIPRA’s vaccine, which has recently received Marketing Authorization from the European Commission after demonstrating that it generates immunity against the LP.8.1 variant and cross-protection against other emerging sublineages such as NB.1.8.1 and XFG, is ready for distribution in single-dose vials and can be stored between 2 °C and 8 °C with a 12-month shelf life. Studies with original vaccine and its adaptation have shown that the vaccine is safe, less reactogenic than mRNA-based vaccine comparator and generates a strong and long-lasting immune response with broad cross-reactivity against emerging variants. 

David Nogareda, president and CEO of HIPRA, underlined that "this agreement is a sign of trust in HIPRA's ability to contribute to the protection of public health. From research to manufacturing, the entire process takes place in Europe, which allows us to guarantee quality, safety and strategic independence. With this contract, we strengthen not only the response to COVID-19, but also Europe’s preparedness for future health challenges". 

During the pandemic, Europe faced challenges with export restrictions, global supply chains and competition for manufacturing capacity outside the Union. By securing an agreement with HIPRA whose R&D, production and fill and finish are located in Europe, Member States strengthen their strategic autonomy.