India Influenza Vaccine Market By Type (Inactivated, Live Attenuated), By Indication (Quadrivalent, Trivalent), By Age Group (Pediatric, Adult), By Route of Administration (Injection, Nasal Spray), By Distribution Channel (Hospitals & Pharmacies, Government & Institutional Supply, Other) By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

India Influenza Vaccine Market was valued at USD 26.76 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 41.28 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 7.45% during the forecast period. The India influenza vaccine market is witnessing steady growth, driven by rising awareness of seasonal flu outbreaks, increasing healthcare investments, and strong government immunization initiatives. With densely populated urban centers and a growing middle class willing to spend on preventive healthcare, vaccine adoption is gaining momentum. Maharashtra, a key region in Western India, leads due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and the presence of major vaccine manufacturers like the Serum Institute of India. Additionally, technological advancements, including needle-free nasal vaccines, are enhancing accessibility and acceptance.

However, challenges persist, including low public awareness in rural areas, vaccine hesitancy, and gaps in distribution networks that hinder widespread immunization. Furthermore, pricing pressures and competition from local and international vaccine manufacturers pose hurdles for market expansion. Despite these challenges, government-led vaccination campaigns and the growing involvement of private healthcare providers are expected to drive future market growth, positioning India as a significant player in the global influenza vaccine landscape.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Prevalence of Influenza And Respiratory Disorders

The increasing prevalence of influenza and respiratory disorders is a significant driver for the growth of the India influenza vaccine market. India faces a growing burden of respiratory illnesses, with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and influenza contributing to a high disease burden. According to the Ministry of Health, Government of India, the country has an estimated 28 million people suffering from asthma and 17 million from COPD, both of which increase susceptibility to severe complications from influenza. The overlapping symptoms and seasonal surges of influenza often exacerbate these chronic conditions, making vaccination a critical preventive measure.

The seasonal outbreaks of influenza, particularly subtypes like H3N2 and H1N1 (swine flu), further highlight the urgent need for widespread vaccination. According to the latest data available on IDSP-IHIP (Integrated Health Information Platform), a total of 3,038 laboratory-confirmed cases of various subtypes of influenza, including H3N2, were reported across India until March 9, 2023. This indicates that the virus remains an ongoing public health concern, especially during peak flu seasons. Moreover, in 2024, India recorded over 9,000 H1N1 cases, resulting in 178 deaths by the end of July, demonstrating the severity of influenza outbreaks and their fatal consequences.

The impact of influenza and respiratory diseases extends beyond morbidity, contributing to a high mortality rate in India. Available data indicate that India has the highest rate of lung disease deaths globally, with lung diseases accounting for 11% of total deaths in the country. The poor air quality in major cities, combined with lifestyle factors and a lack of preventive healthcare in rural areas, further exacerbates the situation. Influenza infections often lead to severe respiratory distress, pneumonia, and hospitalization, particularly among vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Given these alarming statistics, influenza vaccination is increasingly recognized as a crucial public health intervention. Government-led initiatives, along with growing awareness among healthcare providers, are expected to drive vaccine adoption, reducing hospitalizations and fatalities associated with influenza and respiratory illnesses in India.

Advancements in Vaccine Development and Availability

Advancements in vaccine development and availability have significantly bolstered India's influenza vaccination efforts, addressing the country's substantial burden of respiratory illnesses. Historically, influenza vaccination in India faced challenges due to limited vaccine options and accessibility. However, recent developments have transformed this landscape, enhanced both the efficacy and reach of influenza vaccines.

One notable advancement is the development of next-generation vaccines targeting influenza B virus strains. These vaccines aim to provide broader protection against diverse influenza B lineages, which are prevalent in seasonal outbreaks. Researchers have been focusing on creating vaccines that elicit a more robust and long-lasting immune response, potentially reducing the frequency of annual vaccinations. This approach not only improves individual protection but also contributes to better public health outcomes by decreasing the overall incidence of influenza B infections. 

In terms of vaccine availability, India has seen a significant expansion in its immunization infrastructure. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has been actively monitoring and reporting influenza cases, providing valuable data that informs vaccine distribution strategies. For instance, as of May 31, 2024, detailed reports on seasonal influenza A (H1N1) cases and deaths have been compiled, enabling health authorities to identify high-risk areas and allocate vaccines accordingly. 

Furthermore, the World Health Organization's Immunization Data portal indicates that India has been progressively updating its influenza vaccination policies, aligning them with global standards to ensure the availability of effective vaccines. This alignment facilitates the introduction of new vaccines into the national immunization program, thereby improving public access to the latest preventive measures against influenza. 

These advancements are crucial in the context of India's high burden of respiratory diseases. With lung diseases accounting for approximately 11% of total deaths in the country, enhancing vaccine development and availability directly addresses a critical public health concern. By improving the efficacy and accessibility of influenza vaccines, India is better equipped to reduce the incidence of severe respiratory infections, thereby decreasing morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions.

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Key Market Challenges

Vaccine Hesitancy and Low Awareness

One of the biggest challenges in the India influenza vaccine market is vaccine hesitancy and low awareness, particularly among the general public and even some healthcare professionals. Unlike childhood immunization programs, which have high acceptance due to government mandates, seasonal influenza vaccination is often overlooked, leading to low adoption rates across various demographics.

A key factor contributing to vaccine hesitancy is the lack of awareness about influenza and its severity. Many people perceive influenza as a common cold rather than a serious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death. This misconception reduces the perceived necessity of vaccination, especially among healthy adults who may not consider themselves at risk. Additionally, the presence of alternative home remedies and traditional medicine practices in India further discourages vaccination uptake, as many individuals rely on self-medication instead of preventive measures.

Furthermore, concerns about vaccine safety, side effects, and efficacy contribute to hesitancy. Misinformation, particularly through social media and word-of-mouth, has led to skepticism regarding vaccines, with fears of adverse reactions or doubts about the effectiveness of influenza shots. Unlike routine vaccines like polio or measles, influenza vaccines need to be administered annually due to frequent virus mutations, which some individuals see as inconvenient and unnecessary.

The low recommendation rate from healthcare professionals is another barrier. Many doctors and pharmacists in India do not actively encourage influenza vaccination unless the patient falls into a high-risk category, such as elderly individuals, pregnant women, or those with chronic diseases. This lack of proactive advocacy from medical professionals further limits vaccine adoption.

Addressing this challenge requires intensive awareness campaigns, targeted education programs, and stronger recommendations from healthcare providers. Government initiatives, private-sector involvement, and the use of digital platforms to spread credible information could significantly improve public perception. Additionally, integrating influenza vaccines into national immunization programs for high-risk populations could help normalize annual vaccinations and drive higher acceptance rates.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Vaccine Development

The India influenza vaccine market is witnessing a major shift due to technological advancements in vaccine development, leading to improved efficacy, safety, and accessibility. These innovations are shaping the future of influenza immunization, making vaccines more adaptable to evolving virus strains and enhancing public health outcomes.

One of the most significant advancements is the development of cell-based and recombinant influenza vaccines. Traditionally, influenza vaccines have been manufactured using egg-based production methods, which, while effective, have limitations such as longer production times and potential allergic reactions in individuals with egg allergies. Cell-based vaccines, produced using mammalian cells, offer a more efficient and scalable alternative, reducing the time required for vaccine production and improving effectiveness by avoiding egg-adapted mutations. Similarly, recombinant DNA technology allows for faster vaccine manufacturing without the need for live viruses, ensuring a rapid response to emerging influenza strains.

Another major innovation is the mRNA-based influenza vaccine, inspired by the success of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Leading pharmaceutical companies are actively researching and testing mRNA flu vaccines, which could offer higher effectiveness, quicker adaptation to new strains, and longer-lasting immunity. These vaccines have the potential to revolutionize influenza immunization by reducing the time needed to update formulations, thereby improving preparedness for seasonal flu outbreaks.

Additionally, the introduction of quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIVs)—which protect against four different flu virus strains—has gained traction in India. Unlike traditional trivalent vaccines (TIVs), which target only three strains, QIVs offer broader protection against circulating viruses, enhancing overall vaccine effectiveness. This is particularly crucial in a country like India, where diverse climatic conditions contribute to varying flu strain prevalence across regions.

Advancements in vaccine delivery mechanisms are also driving market growth. The rise of needle-free nasal spray vaccines, such as live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIVs), is improving vaccine accessibility, especially among children and individuals with needle phobia. These vaccines not only provide a painless alternative but also stimulate a stronger mucosal immune response, potentially offering better protection against respiratory infections.

With India emerging as a global vaccine manufacturing hub, these technological advancements are expected to boost domestic production, improve vaccine accessibility, and enhance public confidence in influenza immunization. As research continues to evolve, the integration of cutting-edge vaccine technologies will play a crucial role in expanding coverage and mitigating the impact of seasonal influenza outbreaks in the country.

Segmental Insights

Indication Insights

Based on Indication, Quadrivalent have emerged as the dominating segment in the India Influenza Vaccine Market in 2024, driven by their superior protection against multiple virus strains and increasing adoption among healthcare providers. Unlike Trivalent Influenza Vaccines (TIVs), which protect against two A strains and one B strain, QIVs cover an additional B strain, offering broader immunity against influenza viruses circulating in India. The World Health Organization (WHO) and leading health bodies have been actively recommending quadrivalent vaccines due to their enhanced efficacy in combating seasonal flu outbreaks. This shift is further fueled by the increasing prevalence of respiratory illnesses, rising awareness about flu prevention, and the preference for advanced vaccine formulations.

With major vaccine manufacturers like Serum Institute of India, Bharat Biotech, and Sanofi focusing on quadrivalent vaccine production, availability has significantly improved, making them more accessible across the country. Healthcare professionals, particularly those treating elderly individuals, children, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions like asthma and COPD, prefer QIVs due to their comprehensive protection and reduced risk of infection from varying influenza B strains. Private hospitals, corporate vaccination programs, and international market trends are influencing India's transition toward quadrivalent vaccines, gradually replacing trivalent formulations. As awareness continues to grow and India aligns with global influenza vaccination strategies, QIVs are set to maintain their dominance in the Indian market, ensuring wider immunity and better preparedness against influenza outbreaks.

Route of Administration Insights

Based on Route of Administration, Injection have emerged as the dominating segment in the India Influenza Vaccine Market in 2024. Their dominance is primarily driven by high efficacy, widespread availability, and strong acceptance among healthcare professionals. Injectable vaccines are preferred due to their proven immunogenicity, ensuring robust protection against seasonal influenza strains. Moreover, government vaccination programs, corporate immunization drives, and private healthcare providers largely rely on injection-based vaccines, reinforcing their widespread use.

The established cold chain infrastructure in India further supports the dominance of injectable influenza vaccines, ensuring seamless distribution across urban and rural areas. With increasing government initiatives and growing awareness about annual flu vaccination, more individuals, particularly high-risk groups like infants, elderly individuals, and those with chronic respiratory conditions, are opting for injectable vaccines. Major vaccine manufacturers such as Serum Institute of India, Bharat Biotech, and Sanofi continue to invest in the production and advancement of injection-based flu vaccines, further strengthening their market position.

Despite the presence of alternative administration routes, injection-based influenza vaccines remain the preferred choice due to their broader application, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with international immunization guidelines. As influenza cases rise and vaccination awareness increases, the demand for injection-based vaccines is expected to grow further, ensuring their continued market leadership in India.

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Regional Insights

Based on Region, West India have emerged as the dominating region in the India Influenza Vaccine Market in 2024. It is driven by high healthcare awareness, strong vaccination infrastructure, and increasing prevalence of respiratory illnesses. States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan have witnessed a surge in influenza vaccination rates, supported by government immunization initiatives, private healthcare facilities, and corporate wellness programs. Maharashtra, home to major metropolitan hubs like Mumbai and Pune, has a high concentration of healthcare institutions, ensuring easy access to influenza vaccines. Additionally, Gujarat's strong pharmaceutical manufacturing base, with leading vaccine producers and distributors, has further contributed to the region’s dominance.

The increasing burden of influenza cases and respiratory disorders in West India has also fueled the demand for preventive vaccination strategies. With urban populations being more aware of seasonal flu risks, a significant number of individuals, particularly in tier-1 and tier-2 cities, are opting for annual flu vaccinations. Moreover, corporate and institutional vaccination programs have gained momentum in business hubs like Mumbai and Ahmedabad, driving higher vaccine uptake. The presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure, coupled with strong distribution networks, has further solidified West India's leading position in the India Influenza Vaccine Market, making it the most significant contributor to the country's overall influenza vaccination uptake in 2024.

Recent Development

• In July 2024, a new project has been launched to accelerate the development and accessibility of H5N1 avian influenza mRNA vaccines for low- and middle-income countries. Led by Argentina’s Sinergium Biotech, the initiative will leverage the WHO and Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) mRNA Technology Transfer Programme, enhancing global vaccine equity and preparedness against potential influenza outbreaks.
• In March 2024, Cadila Pharmaceuticals has launched Cadiflu Tetra, a quadrivalent influenza vaccine designed to provide broader protection against four influenza virus strains. This vaccine enhances seasonal flu prevention by covering two A strains and two B strains, aligning with global vaccination guidelines. Cadiflu Tetra strengthens India's flu immunization efforts, ensuring wider accessibility and improved public health outcomes.
• In March 2024, The Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended approval for Zydus Lifesciences' trivalent influenza vaccine for children, marking a significant step in India's pediatric flu immunization efforts. This vaccine targets three influenza virus strains, enhancing protection for young populations. The approval boosts vaccine accessibility, reinforcing preventive healthcare measures against seasonal flu outbreaks in India.
• In October 2023, Mylab and Serum Institute of India (SII) have launched Nasovac S4, India’s first needle-free nasal influenza vaccine, offering a pain-free and convenient alternative to injectable flu shots. This innovative live attenuated quadrivalent vaccine aims to enhance vaccine compliance, particularly among children and needle-phobic individuals, while expanding India's influenza immunization options with advanced, easy-to-administer technology.

Key Market Players

• GSK PLC
• Pfizer Inc
• Merck & Co Inc
• Viatris Inc
• AstraZeneca PLC
• Sanofi SA
• Serum Institute of India
• Bharatbiotech International Ltd

Report Scope

In this report, the India Influenza Vaccine Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Type:

o   Inactivated

o   Live Attenuated

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Indication:

o   Quadrivalent

o   Trivalent

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Age Group:

o   Pediatric

o   Adult

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Route of Administration:

o   Injection

o   Nasal Spray

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Hospitals & Pharmacies

o   Government & Institutional Supply

o   Others

• India Influenza Vaccine Market, By Region:

o   East India

o   West India

o   North India

o   South India

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India Influenza Vaccine Market.

Available Customizations:

India Influenza Vaccine Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).