Statement from Novartis on suspended distribution of flu vaccines:
Patient safety is of the highest priority to Novartis. After consultation with Health Canada and as a precautionary measure, Novartis has agreed to suspend distribution of Agriflu and Fluad pending full review by Health Canada. Health Canada has not initiated a recall of these vaccines. Novartis is confident in the safety and efficacy of its seasonal influenza vaccines. For the current season, we estimate that more than one million doses of our seasonal influenza vaccines have been administered in Europe and no unexpected adverse events have been reported. In Canada, we have already completed 70% of the shipment for the season representing approximately 1.5 million doses. To date, no unexpected adverse events have been reported. Novartis will continue to cooperate with Health Canada to address any questions that they may have. All Agriflu and Fluad vaccines released to date have passed quality inspections. It is important to note that anyone already vaccinated with Agriflu or Fluad is not at risk.
