Flu vaccine put on hold in Canada

Higher than usual number having anaphylactic reactions with Swine Flu Vaccine.  Anaphylaxis is a serious reaction.

GlaxoSmithKline has advised doctors in Canada to stop using a batch of its swine flu vaccine, amid reports of severe side-effects in some patients.

The batch of some 170,000 doses was put on hold because of the reported higher than usual number of patients having anaphylactic reactions.

This may include breathing problems, raised heart rate and skin rashes.

The pharmaceutical company said it was investigating the reports, which could lead to the withdrawal of the batch.

The reports say one in 20,000 people suffered adverse reactions to the batch of GlaxoSmithKline's Aperanix vaccine.

         This is five times the expected number. None of the patients reportedly suffered long-term ill-effects.

Story from BBC NEWS: http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/americas/8376534.stm
Published: 2009/11/24 14:11:50 GMT
© BBC MMIX

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