Reactions 1278 - 14 Nov 2009

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Prevnar batch suspended after three infant deaths Dutch authorities have suspended a batch of Prevenar [pneumococcal 7-valent CRM197 vaccine conjugate] after three infants died within 2 weeks of receiving the vaccine, according to Reuters. The batch, number D66977, is said to contain 110 000 doses of the vaccine which is used for the prevention of pneumonia and related infections. The suspension of the batch was initiated by Wyeth and remains in place while the deaths are investigated by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) alongside the EMEA. According to Pfizer, the parent company of Wyeth, the three infants who died also received two unrelated other vaccines, and no link between vaccination and the deaths has yet been found. According to RIVM, an average of five to ten deaths are reported annually after babies receive vaccines; the fact that three have occurred in a short period is ‘unusual’. Other batches of Prevenar, known as Prevnar in the US, will continue to be used. Thomson Reuters. UPDATE 3-Dutch pull Pfizer vaccine batch after infants die. Media Release : 5 Nov 2009. Available from: URL: http:// 809106746 www.reuters.com

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Reactions 14 Nov 2009 No. 1278