Melbourne-based CSL Limited has announced that it has received approval from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to register Panvax®, its avian influenza vaccine. Developed in collaboration with the Australian government, Panvax is intended for use in the prevention of influenza caused by a pandemic strain of avian flu virus.

"We are extremely pleased to have received approval to register Panvax in Australia," commented Mary Sontrop, General Manager of CSL Biotherapies, a group member company of CSL and the business unit responsible for developing and manufacturing Panvax. "In the event of a pandemic, CSL will rapidly gear up to manufacturing levels that will ensure all Australians have access to safe, effective coverage against avian flu. We continue to work collaboratively with the World Health Organization and with the Australian scientific community to maintain a high level of avian flu preparedness."

"I congratulate CSL and the investigators who worked with them on their development and registration of the Panvax avian influenza vaccine," said Australian Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon. "This places Australia in an excellent position in terms of its preparedness to manage an avian flu pandemic should one arise and should reassure all Australians."

CSL acknowledged the significant contributions made by those Australians who participated in the clinical studies to enable the development of this important vaccine.