Novartis ‘contributing to initiation of immunisation programmes’

Novartis has reported that, by continuing to supply vaccines against influenza, the firm is playing its part in guaranteeing the initiation of immunisation schemes for the disease.

These comments come as the firm announces its first shipments of Fluvirin in the US for the 2007-08 influenza season.

Approximately 40 million doses will be shipped to the country, with seven million already made available to individuals in order to support annual influenza initiatives across the nation.

Joerg Reinhardt, chief executive officer of vaccines and diagnostics at Novartis, said: “Novartis Vaccines is committed to supporting public health efforts by continuing to provide a reliable supply of influenza vaccine as early as possible.

“By delivering influenza vaccine to healthcare providers early, we are contributing to ensure early immunisation programmes may be initiated nationwide.”

He added that individuals should follow Centres for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines relating to protecting themselves against contracting influenza through vaccination.

The company reports that it is the second year running that it has made available a significant amount of influenza vaccine in the US as early as August in order to facilitate early protection of high-risk populations.

Last month, Novartis reported that the provision of influenza vaccine is a top priority for the firm.