PIP: A new birth control vaccine is reported. The vaccine was developed by Professor Gursaran Pran Talwar in India at the National Institute of Immunology. A patent has been obtained and a second round of testing is underway. The goal is to provide this method, which keeps a woman infertile for 2 years, at less than a dollar cost. The experimental vaccine generates enough antibodies to neutralize the human chorionic gonadotrophic hormone which maintains pregnancy. Injections are given 3 times at 6-week intervals. Further research is being conducted to develop biodegradable "microcarrier beads" to slowly release the vaccine and reduce injections to 1. Boosters would be prescribed when antibody levels decline beyond a particular point. The method is reversible and does not react with body tissues. It is nearly 100% effective and doesn't need refrigeration. It is hoped that the vaccine will be available within the decade. Interest has been expressed by companies in Indonesia, South Korea, Hong Kong, and the US.