LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) The Federal Government is exploring the adoption of a needle-free injection system to enhance its immunization efforts, a move projected to save approximately $49.51 million over the next five years.
This consideration follows the dissemination meeting of the TROPIS Project, which evaluated the effectiveness of the Tropis device, a World Health Organization (WHO)-pre-qualified tool for administering fractional Inactivated Polio Vaccine (fIPV).
The study, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and conducted by a consortium including PharmaJet and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), took place in Kano and Oyo states from October 2022 to July 2024.
It assessed the cost-efficiency and scalability of the Tropis system compared to traditional intramuscular injections.
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Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized the need for the government to consider the study’s findings, citing the device’s potential to reduce pain, infection risks, and medical waste.
NPHCDA Executive Secretary Muyi Aina highlighted that switching to the needle-free system could result in cost savings of up to 47% per dose.
Paul LaBarre, Vice President of Global Business Development at PharmaJet, noted that the trials showed no device malfunctions and that the needle-free method could revolutionize routine immunization in Nigeria.
He urged national and international partners to support the widespread adoption of the Tropis device.
“This is where the intradermal needle-free delivery device comes in, offering a solution that eliminates the need for needles, reduces vaccine wastage, and enhances immunogenicity,” he added.
USAID officials expressed optimism that Nigeria could lead in adopting innovative immunization technologies, further strengthening its healthcare system.
Local health officials have also praised the needle-free vaccination approach for its accessibility and positive reception in pilot areas.
