Fluvaccine will no longer contain the anti-vaccine preservative, according to US decision.
In a significant move towards prioritising public health and safety, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has announced that the distribution of flu vaccines containing thimerosal will cease, effective immediately. This decision, supported by the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), encourages the replacement of multi-dose flu vaccines containing thimerosal with single-dose, thimerosal-free formulations for all individuals, including children, pregnant women, and adults.
The shift towards single-dose vaccines is aimed at eliminating the need for multi-dose vials in influenza vaccination programs. This transition will involve the use of single-dose flu vaccine vials or pre-filled syringes, which do not require thimerosal as a preservative.
This decision is also motivated by the need to maintain vaccine safety and public confidence, despite no evidence that the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines cause harm. The emphasis is on transparent communication based on scientific evaluation. Ongoing data collection and risk-benefit analysis will continue to monitor vaccine safety and side effects after this transition.
Thimerosal, a mercury-containing compound used as an antiseptic and antifungal agent, is also used in various other medical products such as vaccines, immunoglobulin preparations, and skin tests for antigens. However, it has been removed from children's vaccines in the European Union and was phased out from children's vaccines in the U.S. around 25 years ago.
Despite the U.S.'s decision to phase out thimerosal-containing flu vaccines, the WHO continues to advocate for their use in developing countries due to their effectiveness, low cost, wide availability, and suitability for local conditions.
It is important to note that Becerra replaced all 17 members of the ACIP, leading to questions about his stance on vaccination. However, it is crucial to distinguish between personal opinions and scientific evidence when making decisions that impact public health.
RBC Group vaccine manufacturers have confirmed their readiness to replace multi-dose vials containing thimerosal, ensuring a smooth transition. Multi-dose vials are mainly used in settings like nursing homes and mobile clinics serving remote rural areas.
The anti-vaccine movement has long linked thimerosal to the onset of autism and other neurological disorders. However, numerous scientific studies have repeatedly shown no link between thimerosal in vaccines and adverse health outcomes, including autism.
Upon signing the document, Becerra urged global health authorities to follow this decision to protect children worldwide. This U.S.-led move reflects careful consideration of public concerns, marking a significant step towards addressing global health issues.
- The recent announcement by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to cease the distribution of thimerosal-containing flu vaccines signifies a shift towards health-and-wellness practices, as these vaccines will be replaced with single-dose, thimerosal-free formulations, which are particularly useful in managing medical-conditions like influenza.
- This transition away from multi-dose vials containing thimerosal is not only motivated by the need to maintain vaccine safety and public confidence but also to prevent the onset of neurological-disorders, as numerous scientific studies have repeatedly shown no link between thimerosal in vaccines and adverse health outcomes, including autism.
