health.">
EU Secures Flu Pandemic Vaccine Supply with Seqirus Deal
BRUSSELS — May 9, 2024 — The European Commission has secured a deal with Seqirus UK Ltd. to supply vaccines in the event of a flu pandemic. This strategic move, announced today, aims to provide 27 million vaccine doses to EU member states. The agreement, echoing strategies from the COVID-19 crisis, reflects the EU’s commitment to public health preparedness.Further details are expected to be released soon, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding citizens; this decision underscores the authority’s dedication to public health.
EU Secures Flu Pandemic Vaccine Supply with Seqirus Deal
In a proactive move to safeguard public health, the European Commission has entered into an agreement with Seqirus UK Ltd. to secure a supply of vaccines in the event of a declared flu pandemic.The contract aims to provide 27 million vaccine doses to participating member states.
Joint Procurement for Pandemic Preparedness
Mirroring the joint purchasing strategies employed during the COVID-19 crisis, this contract enables 17 member states, including Spain, to collectively acquire 27,403,200 doses. This acquisition is contingent upon the World Health Organization (WHO) or the European Union officially declaring a flu pandemic.
Did you know? The severity of a flu pandemic depends on the characteristics of the virus strain, the extent of its spread, and the vulnerability of the population.
This joint acquisition agreement (…) will help protect our citizens in case of an emergency of this type. Guarantee timely access to medical countermeasures is a key component of our union.
Hadja Lahbib, Crisis Readiness and Management Commissioner
Preparing for the Unpredictable
Acknowledging the inherent difficulty in predicting flu pandemics, the European Commission emphasizes that this agreement with the pharmaceutical company is a crucial component of the EUS broader preparedness strategy for potential health emergencies. The goal is to ensure that member states have access to essential medical resources when needed most.
Contract Details and Duration
- The contract spans 48 months.
- It includes options for extension up to two times, each for 12 months.
- The maximum duration of the contract is six years.
Building on existing Agreements
This agreement complements previous contracts established by the European Commission. In 2019, a contract was signed with CSL Seqirus, and another followed in 2022 with GSK, stipulating the provision of 85 million doses.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about flu trends and vaccination recommendations from your local health authorities can definitely help you protect yourself and your community.
Understanding the Flu
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that affects various animal species, including birds and pigs. It typically causes annual epidemics,particularly during the winter months. The disease is caused by different types of viruses that can combine,leading to the emergence of new strains.
Transmission and Contagion
The flu is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person through droplets of saliva or secretions expelled when speaking, coughing, or sneezing. This makes it essential to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes, to minimize transmission.
Recognizing Flu Symptoms
Identifying the flu involves recognizing a combination of symptoms.Consider the possibility of having contracted the flu if you experience:
- At least one of the following:
- Fever greater than 100.4°F (38°C).
- General discomfort.
- Headache.
- muscle aches.
- And, in addition, at least one of these:
- Cough.
- Sore throat.
- Difficulty breathing.
