Auto-disable syringes for immunization: issues in technology transfer

WHO and its partners recommend the use of auto-disable syringes, ''bundled" with the supply of vaccines when donor dollars are used, in all mass immun ization campaigns, and also strongly advocate their use in routine immuniza tion programmes. Because Df the relatively high price of auto-disable syrin ges, WHO's Technical Network for logistics in Health recommends that activi ties be initiated to encourage the transfer of production technology for th ese syringes as a means of promoting their use and enhancing access to the technology. The present article examines factors influencing technology tra nsfer, including feasibility, corporate interest, cost, quality assurance, intellectual property considerations, and probable time frames for implemen tation. Technology transfer activities are likely to be complex and difficu lt, and may not result in lower prices for syringes. Guidelines are offered on technology transfer initiatives for auto-disable syringes to ensure the quality of the product, the reliability of the supply, and the feasibility of the technology transfer activity itself.