GlaxoSmithKline to Implement Single-Use Syringes for Vaccines in Developing Countries
GlaxoSmithKline announced on Thursday that it will supply developing countries with
"auto-disable" syringes that only can be used once, in a move to prevent the spread of bloodborne diseases such as hepatitis B and HIV, Reuters Health reports. Developed by U.S. manufacturer UNIVEC, the one-time syringes lock into position once the plunger is depressed, preventing repeat use. WHO/UNICEF policy states that such syringes should be the "equipment of choice" in all vaccination campaigns. GSK, which claims to be the first drug maker to use this "life-saving initiative," said that the syringes will be used for all vials of children's liquid vaccines. The program will begin this month and extend to countries in Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America and Eastern Europe (Reuters Health, 3/15).
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