Philippines To Demand Dengue Vaccine Refund From Sanofi Pasteur; Controversy Threatens Public’s Trust In Other Vaccines

Associated Press: Philippines wants money back from Sanofi for dengue vaccine
“The Philippine government will demand a refund of 3.5 billion pesos ($69.5 million) from vaccine maker Sanofi Pasteur and look at possible legal action after a study showed the vaccine used in a dengue immunization program could expose some people to severe illness, the health chief said Friday…” (Gomez, 12/8).

Reuters: Exclusive: Philippines defied experts’ advice in pursuing dengue immunization program
“As she announced in January 2016 that the Philippines would immunize one million children with a new dengue vaccine, the nation’s then health secretary Janette Garin boasted it was a world-first and a tribute to her country’s ‘expertise’ in research. … After Garin’s announcement, the Formulary Executive Council (FEC) of advisers urged caution over the vaccine because it said its safety and cost-effectiveness had not been established…” (Allard et al., 12/10).

Reuters: Philippines to seek refund of $59 million from Sanofi amid vaccine risk
“…The Philippines last week suspended a national immunization program after Sanofi’s recent findings that there was a risk of severe dengue occurring in previously uninfected people who were inoculated with Dengvaxia. Manila also halted sale of the vaccine in the country and has ordered a probe into the matter…” (Serapio, 12/8).

STAT: Sanofi scandal in the Philippines could spread dangerous mistrust of vaccines
“…Unfortunately, there are indications that the company, which could use a blockbuster product, should have taken its corporate foot off the gas pedal. And to restore confidence in vaccines, a reckoning is required…” (Silverman, 12/11).

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