Approximately 170,000 doses of the Canada's H1N1 vaccine were pulled from clinics across the country today after Manitoba health officials reported higher than normal allergic reactions to one batch.
The vaccine, manufactured in Ontario by GlaxoSmithKline, was distributed amongst several provinces. Of the 170,000 doses in the batch, 1500 were sent to Ontario clinics, but were not yet opened. GSK asked all provinces to set aside the doses from that batch as a precaution. In a written statement today, the company said, "GSK is taking this cautionary action because the Public Health Agency of Canada has received a higher than expected number of reports of anaphylaxis in this lot number compared to other lots."
Typical batches of the vaccine see 1 to 2 severe reactions, but the batch in question had 6. All patients were treated at the scene for symptoms of anaphylaxis and are now doing fine. While mild side effects such as nausea, soreness, headaches or fever have been reported with the H1N1 vaccine, much like seasonal flu shots can cause, the anaphylaxis reactions were considered extreme.
Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. David Butler-Jones reported earlier this week that of the 6.6 million H1N1 vaccinations that have been administered across the country, only 36 severe reactions had been reported. He reminded Canadians that reactions are rare, and the benefits of the H1N1 vaccine far outweigh the risks.
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