Novartis has entered an agreement with the Takeda Pharmaceutical Company in Japan for the distribution of the Novartis Vaxem-Hib vaccine for the prevention of infection caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib). Through this agreement, Novartis will manufacture the vaccine and supply it to Takeda, which will obtain exclusive rights to license, market and distribute the vaccine in Japan.

The WHO estimates that Hib is responsible for some three million serious illnesses and an estimated 386,000 deaths per year world wide, chiefly through meningitis and pneumonia. Every year in Japan, 7.5 per 100,000, or more than 450 children, under the age of five are affected by Hib meningitis. Almost all victims are children under the age of five.

"Novartis is committed to bringing Vaxem-Hib to Japan as soon as possible to help protect Japanese children from Meningitis and other Hib induced infectious diseases through this strategic partnership with Takeda," said Dr Andrin Oswald, CEO of Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics. "Vaxem-Hib is the first of many vaccines that Novartis hopes to bring to Japan to help improve public health and address unmet medical needs."

Vaxem-Hib will mark Novartis entrance into the Japan vaccines market and is part of Novartis Vaccines global expansion strategy. Japan is the world's third largest vaccine market valued at USD 640 million and is expected to grow further.

With this agreement Takeda will become the exclusive partner for Vaxem-Hib in Japan, and will be responsible for conducting clinical trials and submitting a New Drug Application (NDA). Following approval, Takeda will label the product and sell the vaccine under the Novartis brand name. Under the terms of the deal, Takeda will pay Novartis 100 million Yen upfront and will be responsible for paying milestones and royalties in accordance with development and sales of the product.

Vaxem-Hib is a vaccine indicated for vaccination against Haemophilius Influenzae Type B in children less than five years of age.