2-in-1 vaccine out vs seasonal flu, A(H1N1)

MANILA, Philippines - The trusted preservative-free, two-in-one vaccine against seasonal influenza and pandemic A(H1N1) influenza is now available in the Philippines.

A product of research-based Swiss healthcare company Novartis, the vaccine is indicated for individuals aged six months and older.

Novartis Healthcare Philippines launched the two-in-one flu vaccine during a recent dinner symposium dubbed “A Trusted Influenza Vaccine with Decades of Clinical Experience,” at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City and attended by representatives of various corporate accounts.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 16,000 people died due to the pandemic (H1N1) influenza global outbreak last year, prompting the WHO to declare an influenza pandemic in June 2009.

The WHO pointed out that the new flu virus originated from animal influenza viruses and is unrelated to the human seasonal H1N1 viruses that have been in general circulation among people since 1977.

“This new virus is different and deadlier than the virus that causes seasonal influenza,” said Dr. Antonio Ligsay, who was the keynote speaker during the symposium.

Ligsay is a pediatrician and epidemologist who heads the Research Management and Development Division of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) of the Department of Science and Technology.

“Physicians need to educate patients about the importance of preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, vitamin supplementation to strengthen the immune system, and immunization to prevent viral infection,” said Dr. Ignacio Rivera, a pediatric neurologist and past president of the Child Neurology Society, Philippines.

“We acknowledge the efforts of our partners, particularly the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, in helping promote immunization among Filipino children and adults,” said Dr. May Montellano, immediate past president of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society of the Philippines.

“Rest assured that our vaccine stocks are more than adequate to meet the country’s anti-influenza immunization needs,” said Gemma Llamado-Brion, business franchise head of Novartis Vaccines.