Alberta suspends use of Agriflu influenza vaccine

Alberta has stopped the use of the Agriflu influenza vaccine following recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

The suspension is a precautionary measure following a voluntary suspension of the Agriflu vaccine in Europe after white particulate matter was found floating in the vaccine.
The province is following the Public Health Agency of Canada recommendation to stop using Agriflu until Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada work with the vaccine manufacturer Novartis to review the product for safety and effectiveness.

Protein aggregates in vaccine vials do occur and are not linked to any safety or efficacy issues.

“While there have been no reports of any adverse affects in Alberta with this vaccine, we are following the recommendation to suspend the use of Agriflu until questions of its safety and efficacy are resolved,” said Dr. Martin Lavoie, Alberta’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health. “We are working with Alberta Health Services and have asked all public health clinics, physicians and pharmacists to stop using this vaccine until the federal review is completed.”

“It’s important that Albertans continue to get the flu shot,” said Minister of Health Fred Horne. “Getting the flu shot is the most effective way for everyone to prevent illness and protect families and communities.”

Agriflu is one of three vaccines offered through the province’s influenza immunization campaign. Agriflu comprises only 22 per cent of Alberta’s total vaccine supply, with Fluviral and FluMist (nasal spray) comprising the bulk of influenza vaccines used in this year’s influenza immunization program.

Influenza immunization clinics offer the vaccines Fluviral and FluMist, and will continue through the weekend as scheduled.

The public can contact HEALTHLink Alberta at 1-866-408-5465 for more information on Alberta Health Services Immunization Clinics, or visit www.albertahealthservices.ca.