The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Afluria, an additional seasonal influenza vaccine for the immunization of people ages 18 and older.
Afluria is intended to protect adults from influenza type A and type B flu viruses. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause annual epidemics.
The approval of Afluria, manufactured by CSL Limited of Parkville, Australia, brings the number of seasonal influenza manufacturers licensed for the U.S. market to six.
Based on current manufacturing trends, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the six manufacturers will supply a record 132 million doses of influenza vaccine for the 2007-2008 influenza season.
"Routine immunization is the most effective way to prevent influenza and decrease influenza-related complications which can include serious illness and death," said Jesse L. Goodman, M.D., M.P.H., director of FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. "The licensure of this additional manufacturer contributes to having an adequate supply of seasonal influenza vaccine for Americans, one of FDA's highest priorities."
Flu season in the United States can begin as early as October and can last as late as May, according to the CDC. Every year in the United States, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized with influenza and about 36,000 people die from its complications. While it is best to be immunized as soon as the vaccine is available, usually in September, getting a flu shot any time during influenza season is also appropriate because the influenza season often peaks late.