Canada suspends dispersal of Novartis flu shots following similar move in Europe
TORONTO – Canada has asked flu shot maker Novartis to suspend distribution of its influenza vaccine in Canada.
The decision follows a similar move by several European countries after Novartis revealed it had found particles in some batches of its flu vaccines.
Dr. Paul Gully of Health Canada says the move is a precautionary one, which has been taken to give Canada time to investigate the situation.
Novartis makes only about 20 per cent of Canada’s annual flu vaccine purchase.
The particles are not believed to be contamination but rather tiny clumps of the viruses used in making the vaccine.
Typically flu vaccine should be clear, but occasionally proteins in the serum clump and become visible to the eye.
News from © The Canadian Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.