Health Canada has declared Novartis products Agriflu and Fluad influenza vaccines safe for use.
A full review of the products has cleared the vaccines for use. Although the hold was initiated based on the detection of particles in vaccine during production, these products did not leave the manufacturer.
Manitoba Health had checked the provincial inventory of 2012 flu vaccine supplies and determined that about one per cent of stock shipped in Manitoba is from Novartis.
Manitoba Health has advised health-care providers to proceed with use of the product. There have been no serious adverse events reported to be associated with the use of Agriflu or Fluad in Manitoba, Canada or Europe.
Manitoba Health assures providers and patients the flu vaccines available for use in Manitoba are safe, effective and the best way to protect against influenza. The Manitoba campaign urges people to get the shot, not the flu to protect yourself, your friends and your family.
For more information, contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free).
