FDA approval of avian flu vaccine moves preparedness forward

A statement from Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Nicole Lurie, M.D.

We now have a flu vaccine to protect the health of a greater number of people, should this deadly virus change from one that spreads from birds to people to one that can spread person to person like the seasonal influenza virus.

From the ASPR Blog:
Have Less to Stress about This Holiday Season: Get your Flu Shot

The holidays can be fun, but they can also be stressful. But there is one thing that I’m not too stressed about: getting the flu. Find out why (hint: it involves a flu shot).

HHS boosts global ability to respond to pandemics

Sustainable, international capacity to manufacture influenza vaccine reduces pandemic threat

ASPR announced grants totaling $15 million to build a sustainable capacity to manufacture influenza vaccine in developing countries and help reduce the global threat of influenza pandemics.

HHS awards grants for Hurricane Sandy recovery research

More than $8 million in grants will support research to aid the long-term recovery in areas hard hit by Hurricane Sandy in October 2012. These grants are the first ones that HHS has funded for research needed by local communities to support long-term recovery efforts.

HHS fosters development of new blood test for anthrax

New test would provide fast results for medical care after anthrax attack