The World Health Organisation has urged China to strengthen its oversight of private immunisations after a scandal involving the illegal trade of expired and improperly-stored vaccines.
Dr Lance Rodewald of WHO China's Expanded Programme said the investigation into the "troubling" illegal vaccine trade would help identify ways the regulation of China's private vaccine market can be improved.
"The vaccines that are in the private sector need to be managed, stored, handled, distributed and used in accordance with recognised standards," said Rodewald at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.
Sixty million dollars worth of illegal vaccines were discovered in China’s northeast province of Shandong.
Chinese police say a woman and her daughter are thought to have sold the illegal products nationwide since 2011. Both have been detained.
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China investigating 130 over vaccine scandal
So far more than 130 people have been questioned over the trade, and 69 have been charged in connection with the pair.
While China’s Drug and Food Administration has said 29 pharmaceutical companies are suspected of selling the illegal vaccines, and 16 vaccination institutions are suspected of buying them.
Last week, Chinese health officials admitted to loopholes in the country’s vaccine distribution network.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has ordered a thorough investigation into the illegal vaccine trade, saying there will be no leniency for those found to be responsible.
