The EARL OF HARROWBYasked Her Majesty's Government whether any steps can be taken to expedite the production of the preventative antibiotic for "Hong Kong 'flu", in view of the likelihood of this disease reaching this country later this year.
§ BARONESS SEROTASome infections with the new variant of influenza virus have already occurred and more can be expected.
No antibiotic has been shown to be effective against influenza. Certain new 1606WA anti-viral drugs are under investigation but are not yet proven.
The new variant of influenza virus is already being incorporated into new vaccines now under active development by the pharmaceutical industry. Production has begun and substantial quantities will have become available by the end of the year, but the degree of effectiveness of any new vaccine cannot be known in advance of use.