Shipment of Afluria Vaccine Commences in Time for Flu Season

Pennsylvania-based vaccine producer, bioCSL, Inc, has started shipping its influenza vaccine, Afluria, in preparation for the 2014-2015 flu season, though the company said those who ordered Afluria can begin vaccinating patients as early as this month.

Alfuria is designed to combat types A and B of the influenza virus in patients aged 5 years or older. The most common side effect of the vaccine is soreness in the injection area.

bioCSL has been producing vaccinations for seasonal influenza for more than 50 years. Today, its flu vaccine is registered for use in 27 countries around the world.

“Our historical operational focus on early and consistent delivery has resulted in a strong customer pre-book order demand for the coming season,” said Marie Mazur, MD, President of bioCSL, in a statement. “We are committed to continuing to serve the needs of providers in the United States, and want to ensure that they are prepared to help prevent influenza in their communities.”

According to bioCSL, 18- to 64-year-olds were severely impacted by the 2013-2014 flu season, as approximately 60% of hospitalizations related to influenza were directly tied to this demographic. This age group also had a lower-than-average vaccination rate compared to the national average in the United States, the company noted.

“With each influenza season comes new challenges,” Mazur stated. “The flu is a significant public health threat. bioCSL strives to deliver vaccines to providers as early as possible to give them ample time to vaccinate against the flu.”