Excess H1N1 Vaccine Component Made In Canada Shipped Overseas: Report

The pharmaceutical company contracted by the government to produce the H1N1 vaccine reportedly made more of the antigen than can be used in Canada and shipped the excess overseas.

On Tuesday Canada’s Auditor General Sheila Fraser slammed the government for not having a firm emergency plan in place to deal with situations like pandemics.

Many people across the country are fuming over the long lines and other obstacles in getting the H1N1 shot and public health officials at every level of government have admitted the overwhelming demand caught them off-guard.

According to a published report Wednesday, GlaxoSmithKline’s Quebec plant produced more antigen than we can use and it’s been sent elsewhere. Where exactly the excess went is not known.

The report states vaccine is produced in three stages: antigen production (the active ingredient in the shot); filling the vials and quality control.

Last week Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. David Butler-Jones, warned of a temporary vaccine shortage because the government requested GSK produce more of the adjuvant-free shots for pregnant women.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today