HEALTH WATCH: Swine-Flu Vaccine Debate
For the last few years, we have become accustomed to the yearly flu-shot, but as we all know LUXies this year is much different! As we reported a few weeks ago, the swine-flu continues to be something to take precaution against. It seems that a debate is brewing on whether the largest influenza vaccine manufactures should start to explore their options in creating a specialized vaccine to address the current swine-flu epidemic. Although, costly on many fronts one of the largest makers of the flu vaccine, Sanofi Aventis, seems highly prepared and has stated that as early as September they could begin to address the new formulated vaccine.
Due to the fact that vaccine manufacturing is highly complicated and, therefore, expensive it will not be as simple as it sounds. There are huge adjustments required to accommodate for this new vaccine and it would definitely take a toll on current production quantities.
Drug makers may be forced to make a choice between producing seasonal vaccines or a targeted swine-flu vaccine, stated Sanofi CEO, Chris Viehbacher.
The question still remains how we pick between the lesser of two evils. Although, the swine-flu is definitely something to watch out for, little is known about its long term effect just yet. What is evident is that the standard version of this illness is responsible for approximately 500,000 to 1 million deaths globally each year. It looks like the World Health Organization has much to discuss in order to find the most effective solution in moving forward. We will continue to keep you up to date on all fronts regarding this current health watch. In the meantime, be sure to take preventative measures and don’t hesitate to call the Doc!!
For more information, check out Business Week.
Tagged in: health, world health organization, chris viehbacher, seasonal flu, epidemic, drug makers, influenza vaccine, sickness, sanofi-aventis, swine-flu,
