Pfizer/Wyeth merger leaves Dolsten in charge of vax research; Novavax, Xcellerex team on swine flu deal;

Vaccine Research

The big merger between Pfizer and Wyeth will leave Mikael Dolsten in charge of eight research units, including the work that is being done on new vaccines. Report

Controversy continues to surround the big AIDS vaccine trial in Thailand. A dispute over the actual efficacy rate has dogged the researchers involved. But Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), remains upbeat. "We now have a proof of concept. It's the first time we've been able to show that," he said. Story

Entest BioMedical has signed a letter of intent to acquire Therinject. Release

Swine Flu

Novavax and Xcellerex have joined forces to produce a new swine flu vaccine for Mexico, where it is applying for an approval. Story

Revenue at Novartis is being swelled by $700 million from the sale of swine flu vaccine. Report

People who get swine flu remain contagious for significantly longer than seasonal flu. Story

There have been widespread reports of school closings as a result of swine flu, including this one from mid-Michigan. Report