JAMA Viewpoint Examines Challenges in Providing Vaccine for Avian Influenza A(H7N9)

The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has published a Viewpoint, Major Challenges in Providing an Effective and Timely Pandemic Vaccine for Influenza A(H7N9), by Michael T. Osterholm, PhD, MPH, of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and colleagues.

The emergence of avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in humans has public health authorities around the world on high alert for the potential development of a human influenza pandemic. As of May 8, 2013, authorities had identified 131 confirmed cases and 32 deaths among residents of 8 provinces and 2 municipalities in China, the authors write.

In this Viewpoint, the authors examine several issues regarding the A(H7N9) vaccines, including estimated effectiveness, timely availability and the regulatory approval process. To read the Viewpoint, CLICK HERE.