Pharmaceutical Companies Developing Universal Flu Vaccine
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Alex Knapp | Friday, December 29, 2006 |
Two European pharmaceutical companies are currently close to developing a vaccine that would work for all types of influenza.
Described as the ‘holy grail’ of flu vaccines, it would protect against all strains of influenza A – the virus behind both bird flu and the nastiest outbreaks of winter flu.Just a couple of injections could give long-lasting immunity – unlike the current vaccine which has to be given every year.
The brainchild of scientists at Cambridge biotech firm Acambis, working with Belgian researchers, the vaccine will be tested on humans for the first time in the next few months.
A similar universal flu vaccine, being developed by Swiss vaccine firm Cytos Biotechnology, could also be tested on people in 2007 – and the vaccines on the market in around five years.
That’s very cool. Another positive benefit of the type of vaccine being developed is that it’s apparently easier and cheaper to make than traditional flu vaccines. I wish both companies luck in developing their versions of the vaccine–it’d be nice if the human race could rid itself of the nastier influenzas.
About the Author: Alex has a B.S. in Biochemistry from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and a J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law. He has been published in the Kansas City Star, TCS Daily, and Comic Book Resources. He joined the staff of OTB in June 2006. Additionally, he’s been writing at Heretical Ideas since October, 2001, and also reviews cigars at Cigar Jack's Cigar News and Reviews.
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Isn't this about the point we should hear a leftist screed against the evils of big pharma and how they are hurting America with their greed?
Those evil corporations! Saving kids to harvest their organs and render their fat for oil!
I note that the antivaxers are already jumping into the comments section for the article. Infuriating.
Isn’t this about the point we should hear a leftist screed against the evils of big pharma and how they are hurting America with their greed?
Or perhaps a rightist screed against biological manipulations and how they are playing God. We both have our crazies.
This a one time shot? or every year,month, week or what???
Michael; Right you both have your "crazies". Your use of the word "screed" gives me pleasant fantasies about the combination of politicians, concrete,& deep water!
""Just a couple of injections could give long-lasting immunity!""
I missed this sentence. My bad! This will be great if it works and it is not mandatory.
Why should it be mandatory? Just refuse treatment to anyone stupid enough not to take it. End of problem.
jorgXmcKie; Your apparent hive mind precludes an understanding of liberty.
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