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Drugmakers Form Emergency Task Force
WILLIAM STORCK
Under the auspices of the Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturers of America (PhRMA)--the trade organization for U.S. pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies--a number of drug companies have formed a task force for emergency preparedness to deal with health consequences of terrorist activities.
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CIPRO Bayer's drug is only one weapon for fighting bioterrorism.
PHOTO BY DAVID MCNEW/GETTY IMAGES
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Alan F. Holmer, PhRMA's president, says, "The task force is working with the Bush Administration and Congress to address the unique health challenges that the U.S. faces." The task force is chaired by Richard J. Markham, CEO of Aventis Pharma.
Many of the task force members have already pledged help in various areas. Among the efforts, Aventis has offered the U.S. government products, manufacturing capacity, and technical resources to protect against bioterrorism and has offered its support in ensuring an adequate supply of smallpox vaccine. American Home Products is submitting a plan to the government to develop and manufacture a new smallpox vaccine.
Bristol-Myers Squibb has volunteered a team of 20 to 25 scientists specializing in antibacterial research--under government direction, but fully funded by the company--to initiate a multipronged attack on microbial weapons.
Pharmacia will provide the Defense and Health & Human Services Departments with confidential access to internal scientific information, animal model systems, and chemical libraries for potential antimicrobial and antiviral agents. It also will provide government scientists with access to Pharmacia labs and, if needed, will make production facilities available.
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