BREAKING NEWS

Novartis says produces first batch of H1N1 vaccine

JUNE 12, 2009 14:06

Swiss pharmaceuticals company Novartis AG said Friday it has produced a first batch of experimental swine flu vaccine. The vaccine hasn't yet been tested and cannot be used in humans yet. It was made in cells, rather than grown in eggs as is usually the case with vaccines, the company said. But because vaccines grown in cells account for less than 5 percent of the world's flu vaccine capacity, Novartis' announcement is unlikely to provide a major boost to the world's pandemic vaccine supply. The announcement comes a day after WHO declared swine flu, also known as A(H1N1), a pandemic. The move indicates that a global outbreak is under way. WHO says drugmakers will likely have vaccines approved and ready for sale after September. Novartis said it would use the first batch of vaccine for laboratory testing. It may also be tested in humans, the company said.

Two IDF soldiers wounded during operation in Nur Shams in West Bank

By AMIR BOHBOT

04/19/2024 03:23 PM

UN chief appeals for end to 'dangerous cycle of retaliation' in Mideast

By REUTERS

04/19/2024 03:23 PM

Polish flag carrier LOT cancels Friday flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut

By REUTERS

04/19/2024 03:20 PM

Hamas official condemns Israel's attack on Iran

By REUTERS

04/19/2024 02:32 PM