GlaxoSmithKline issues H1N1 update

GlaxoSmithKline has published an update on the progress it has made in supporting health authorities and governments around the globe to respond to the H1N1 pandemic.

The organisation explained that in order to improve understanding, vigilance and potential responses to the condition, it has shared data and resources with many different bodies, including the World Health Organization.

“GlaxoSmithKline has also significantly increased production levels of its anti-viral influenza treatment Relenza and developed an innovative respirator mask, designed to protect the wearer from inhaling airborne influenza virus,” the firm added.

The organisation said that it “strongly endorses” the principles established by the Gates Foundation in order to help guide worldwide allocation of pandemic vaccines and urges the global community to take “all steps necessary” to aid every population.

Earlier this month, GlaxoSmithKline and Enigma Diagnostics announced a deal which will see the firms create and distribute the first point-of-care diagnostic tests to identify specific strains of influenza viruses.