GlaxoSmithKline backs bird flu stockpile claims

A recommendation that stores of Roche’s H5N1 ‘bird flu’ treatment Tamiflu should be accompanied by additional antivirals has been welcomed by GlaxoSmithKline.

Published in online journal Nature, the report – the mechanism of h5n1 influenza resistance to Tamiflu and implications for drug stockpiles – suggested antivirals such as zanamivir should also be stockpiled.

GlaxoSmithKline highlighted the section of the report in which the authors stated its results “indicate that it would be prudent for pandemic stockpiles of oseltamivir to be augmented by additional antiviral drugs, including zanamivir”.

It also noted that recent European Medical Agency advice favoured finding a second treatment for bird flu in preparation for a possible pandemic.

Eddie Gray, president of GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Europe, said antivirals are a “key component” of a flu pandemic response.

GlaxoSmithKline manufactures antiviral medicines and flu vaccines and Mr Gray renewed the company’s commitment to tackling the H1N5 threat.