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EU approves Novartis' Bexsero for meningitis

23 January 2013 | News | By BioSpectrum Bureau

Novartis' Bexsero gets approval for use in individuals from two months of age and older

Novartis' Bexsero gets approval for use in individuals from two months of age and older

Singapore: European Commission has approved Novartis' Bexsero (Meningococcal Group B Vaccine [rDNA, component, adsorbed]) for use in individuals from two months of age and older.

"This meningitis B vaccine is the most important medical breakthrough in the 30 years since I lost my son to the disease," said Meningitis UK Founder Mr Steve Dayman. "It could save thousands of lives and prevent other parents suffering the same tragedy. The vaccine must be made widely available through the immunisation schedule as soon as possible, any delay could mean lives lost."

MenB disease is a bacterial infection and is the leading cause of meningitis across Europe, particularly in infants. Although rare, one reason this disease is so feared is that it affects healthy people rapidly and without warning. Symptoms can often resemble the flu, making this disease easily misdiagnosed in its early stages. In many cases, doctors simply cannot treat infected patients soon enough to avoid serious outcomes.

About one in ten of those who contract the disease will die despite appropriate treatment. Up to one in five survivors may suffer from devastating, life-long disabilities such as brain damage, hearing impairment or limb loss. Prevention through vaccination is therefore the best defense against this aggressive disease.

"Each year, thousands of parents see their children die or left with severe disabilities as a result of this devastating disease. Through the combined efforts of many people over two decades, we are closer than ever to seeing an end to this suffering," said Mr Andrin Oswald, division head, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics. "Our vision is a world without meningitis, and our priority is to work with decision makers across Europe to ensure there is broad and timely access to vaccination."

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