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GSK anticipates delivery of at least half of its influenza vaccines by theend of August and the vast majority to be shipped to customers by the end ofSeptember.
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"GSK is committed to continually raising awareness of the role ofinfluenza vaccination in helping to keep people healthy," said David Pernock,Senior Vice President, GlaxoSmithKline. "We are excited to play an integralpart in helping adults protect themselves against this serious infection."
FLUARIX is available for purchase on GSKVaccinesDirect.com. FLULAVAL isavailable for purchase on GSKVaccinesDirect.com or through three distributors-- Henry Schein, Inc., McKesson Medical-Surgical and ASD Specialty Healthcare.
About Influenza
Influenza, or the flu, is primarily passed from one person to anotherthrough the air by droplets released when an infected individual coughs orsneezes, but may also be spread by direct contact with flu virus-contaminatedsurfaces.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),annual flu vaccination is the most effective method for preventing flu virusinfection and its complications. The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccinationfor anyone who wishes to reduce their risk of contracting the flu --especially adults over 50 years of age, women who will be pregnant during theflu season and anyone with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease,asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. The CDCalso recommends annual vaccination for caregivers and household contacts ofthese high-risk groups, such as relatives and healthcare workers. In fact,approximately 83 percent of the U.S. population is included in one or more ofthe target groups that the CDC recommends to receive the vaccination; however,less than 40 percent of the U.S. population received a flu vaccination during2007-2008.
The beginning, severity and length of the flu season can vary widely fromyear to year. According to CDC data, the peak in flu activity between theyears 1976 and 2008 frequently occurs after December, most commonly inFebruary. In general, healthcare providers should begin offering vaccinationsoon after the vaccine becomes available and if possible by October. The CDCrecommends an extended vaccination effort, with vaccination offered at everyopportunity throughout the flu season.
About FLUARIX and FLULAVAL
FLUARIX and FLULAVAL are indicated for active immunization of adults (18years of age and older) against influenza disease caused by influenza virussubtypes A and type B contained in the vaccines. These indications are basedon immune response, and there have been no controlled trials demonstrating adecrease in influenza disease after vaccination with these products. FLUARIXand FLULAVAL are not indicated for use in children.
Important Safety Information
FLUARIX and FLULAVAL should not be administered to anyone with knownsystemic hypersensitivity reactions to eggs, egg products, egg or chickenproteins, or any component of the vaccines. FLUARIX and FLULAVAL should notbe administered to anyone who has had a life-threatening reaction to previousadministration of any influenza vaccine. Immunization should be delayed inanyone with an acute evolving neurologic disorder, but should be consider
