# 1041
A pre-pandemic vaccine is a bit of a gamble. It may, or may not, prove effective once a pandemic strain emerges. The hope is that even a poorly matched vaccine might afford enough protection to the recipiant that while it might not stop them from becoming infected, it might lessen the severity of their illness and improve their chances of survival.
GSK (Glaxo-Smith Kline) announced today that the HHS has ordered an additional 22 million doses of this pre-pandemic vaccine, on top of an order for 5 million doses made last November.
This is a substantial increase in the national vaccine stockpile, with perhaps enough vaccine for 10% of the nation.
Fresh U.S. order for avian flu vaccine
By Val Brickates Kennedy, MarketWatch
Last Update: 1:42 PM ET Aug 3, 2007
BOSTON (MarketWatch) -- As part of the U.S. government's effort to stockpile vaccine in case of a pandemic flu outbreak, the Department of Health and Human Services has placed an order for additional doses of GlaxoSmithKline's avian flu vaccine.
In a statement, Glaxo said HHS has placed an order for 22.5 million doses of its vaccine to prevent the H5N1 flu strain, commonly referred to as avian flu. The order is in addition to 5 million doses that the government ordered in November 2006
Glaxo also said that it has initiated Phase I/II clinical trials for its pre-pandemic vaccine. The studies will test the vaccine alone and in combination with one of Glaxo's adjuvant agents, which can boost the vaccine's strength. Results are expected early next year.
The vaccine ordered will be manufactured at Glaxo's Ste. Foy, Canada, plant. Glaxo added that the vaccine for the clinical trials will be produced at its facilities in Quebec. Glaxo acquired Canadian flu vaccine developer ID BioMedical in late 2005.
Glaxo hopes to begin a 4,400-patient Phase III trial for the vaccine later this year.
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