Labs ready seed stock needed for swine flu jab

In order to gear up mass production of a new vaccine for swine flu, scientists must first develop "seed stock," a form of the virus that can grow swiftly in eggs. The CDC has already distributed samples to 10 labs in the U.S. and around the world to get that process started, according to the New York Times.

While government vaccine experts are still pondering exactly how to respond to the outbreak of swine flu, a move to offer the double jab needed to provide protection would require a massive effort on the part of manufacturers. Come this fall, a segment of the population may need three shots, including one for seasonal flu.

Dr. Doris Bucher, who runs a lab in Westchester County, New York, says she will be ready to provide seed stock later this month. Now officials need to balance the logistical demands of mass production against growing evidence that this strain is particularly mild. Guatemala today became the 22nd country to announce a case of swine flu, a day after the flu combined with chronic health problems killed a Texas woman. WHO says the virus appears to primarily threaten young people.

- check out the report from the New York Times
- read this NYT story

Related Articles:
In days, swine flu becomes topic A for scientists
Researchers crack flu genetic code
U.S. declares swine flu health emergency
Swine flu outbreak triggers pandemic alarm
Swine flu death toll climbs