GSK obtains prequalification for global use of pneumococcal vaccine

Posted on: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:59:00 EST


Symbols: GSK
Nov 10, 2009 (Datamonitor via COMTEX) --
GSK | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals has reported that the World Health Organization, or WHO has awarded prequalification for global use of Synflorix, the company's pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

This is reportedly the first prequalification for a vaccine against pneumococcal disease. The WHO prequalification allows UN agencies to purchase vaccines on behalf of developing countries and will accelerate global access to Synflorix.

The WHO awarded prequalification for global use of a one-dose vial presentation of Synflorix. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is working closely with the WHO to review a file for the prequalification of a two-dose vial, a presentation that could make more efficient use of limited refrigeration space in low-resource settings.

GSK currently manufactures Synflorix at its plant in Belgium. In June 2009, GSK opened a new $411 million plant in Singapore, which will have the capacity to meet the need for pneumococcal vaccines in global markets in the coming years.

Jean Stephenne, CEO of GSK Biologicals, said: "GSK developed Synflorix to offer protection against pneumococcal disease to children all over the world. The vaccine helps protect against 10 strains of the pneumococcal bacterium and can make a lasting public health impact in developing countries, where the disease burden is greatest. GSK is especially proud to be the first company to receive prequalification for a pneumococcal vaccine that can save so many lives and dramatically alter the world's fight against pneumonia."

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