Norway Prepares for Potential Bird Flu Pandemic with Vaccine Agreements, Option for 11m Vaccine Doses

The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) is bolstering its preparedness against bird flu, securing an option for 11 million vaccine doses in the event of a pandemic. This agreement, involving pharmaceutical companies GSK (formerly GlaxoSmithKline) and Seqirus, ensures two doses for every Norwegian resident if a new influenza virus emerges. These vaccines, to be produced using existing influenza vaccine technology, would become available within four to six months of a pandemic declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO). Preben Aavitsland, acting regional director for infection control at FHI, clarified that Norway is unlikely to purchase the full quantity of doses but is prioritizing readiness.
FHI has also initiated internal and external preparedness measures. Municipal doctors were briefed via a webinar, and microbiological laboratories have been urged to maintain vigilance. An updated risk assessment is expected in the coming weeks, though Aavitsland emphasized that the current risk of human infection remains very low.