WASHINGTON, Oct 12, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Prospects of losing half of the U.S. flu vaccine came as a surprise to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last week, the Washington Post said Tuesday.

Acting FDA Commissioner Lester Crawford denied media reports the agency had any early indications that there were serious problems at the Chiron Corp., a vaccine manufacturer in England that was supposed to supply the United States with some 48 million doses.

Friday, British health officials said U.S. officials were informed Sept. 13 bacterial contamination problems at Chiron's plant could disrupt supplies. Then on Oct. 5, the British government lifted Chiron's license.

"I want to refute as strongly as possible the contention ... that FDA knew before Oct. 5 that there was evidence of a problem serious enough for (British officials) to suspend Chiron's license to distribute or export influenza vaccine for the upcoming flu season," Crawford said.

The sudden shortage forced U.S. officials to recommend healthy adults skip the vaccine this year so the remaining supplies can be used for those at highest risk -- babies, the elderly, people with weak immune systems and healthcare workers.

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