Government buys millions of doses of new vaccine amid pandemic fears

The UK Government has secured a contract for more than five million doses of the human H5 influenza vaccine, in an effort to bolster the nation's defences against a potential H5 influenza pandemic. The vaccine, derived from the current H5 avian influenza virus - commonly known as 'bird flu' - will be produced by UK healthcare firm CSL Seqirus UK Limited.

This acquisition is part of ongoing plans to enhance the UK’s access to vaccines for a broader range of potentially pandemic-causing pathogens, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Dr Meera Chand, emerging infection lead at the UKHSA, said it was "important for us to be prepared against a range of different influenza viruses that may pose human health risks", adding: "Early access to vaccines saves lives. Adding H5 vaccines to the interventions already available to us will help us to be ready for a wider range of threats."

The influenza A(H5N1) virus has been causing a prolonged global outbreak, primarily in birds, over the past few years. However, the human H5 influenza vaccine would only be used if this virus began spreading among humans, for which there is currently no evidence, the UKHSA clarified.

It added: "The procurement will strengthen the UK’s preparedness for a H5 influenza-originated pandemic by ensuring that vaccines are immediately available, while a pandemic-specific vaccine is made ready. The UK Government already has an advance purchase agreement for pandemic vaccines if or when they are needed, that would be tailored to combat the specific pandemic flu strain identified at the time."

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, said: “Together with UKHSA, we are committed to ensuring that the UK is prepared and ready to respond to any current and future health threats. Adding the H5 vaccine to our stockpile is one part of our preparedness plans, improving our readiness to respond to a range of emerging health threats and protecting people’s lives and livelihoods.”

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Source: MSN, 3 December 2024