§ Sir David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Security what is his current assessment of the efficacy of anti-influenza vaccines in the light of the latest assessment by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitneyThe functions of the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control in regard to influenza vaccines are to review the data provided by vaccine manufacturers on antibody response in recipients, and to evaluate the potency and strain composition of each batch of vaccine. Recommendations on the composition and use of influenza vaccines for the forthcoming winter are made each year by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation and advice is given to the medical profession by the Chief Medical Officer as necessary in the light of the Committee's recommendations. Currently available influenza vaccines confer protection against infection for about a year after administration to about 70 per cent. of recipients.