Government takes responsible path on H1N1 trial

The Federal Government’s decision not to rush the clinical trial of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine is entirely responsible and in the best interests of patients, Medicines Australia chief executive Ian Chalmers said today.

“The Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon has confirmed that the Government is not prepared to rush these trials through without first being certain that the vaccine is safe and effective,” Mr Chalmers said.

“This is a safe and responsible approach which will serve the community well in the long run.

“The pharmaceutical industry is currently in the process of developing a number of vaccines and anti-viral medicines.

“Companies are working as fast as they can to develop effective responses to the swine flu virus, but it is critical that new medicines and vaccines are shown to be safe and effective before being released to the public.

“The swine flu vaccine clinical trial under way in Adelaide is important and a very significant development in the fight against swine flu. It is absolutely appropriate for the manufacturer and the Government to responsibly insist on waiting for the evidence that the vaccine is safe and effective.

“Clinicians need to understand how a new medicine or vaccine will work in humans. That is why clinical trials take time.”

–ENDS–

Contact Person:

Jamie Nicholson
Media Communications Manager
Phone: 0419 220 293
Email: Jamie.Nicholson@medicinesaustralia.com.au