MELBOURNE—CSL Ltd. halted Australian distribution of its pediatric influenza vaccine Friday and launched an investigation after Australian authorities linked influenza injections to severe adverse reactions in young children.
Meanwhile, shares in the big maker of vaccines and plasma products fell 7.3% Friday, in what traders attributed to unrelated worries about the market after U.S. rival Baxter International Inc. on Thursday slashed its full-year outlook. CSL said it didn't have any reason to alter its previous guidance.
CSL, one of the world's largest influenza vaccine manufacturers, halted vaccine distribution Friday following reports that children have suffered seizures and high fevers after their injections. A company spokeswoman said the injection at the center of the concern was a seasonal vaccine that immunized children against three influenza strains, including H1N1, also known as swine flu.
Australian Chief Medical Officer Jim Bishop suspended influenza vaccinations for all children under five years old. He said health authorities are seeking more information from CSL, the manufacturer, and to confirm which batches of vaccine were used in Western Australia.
Dr. Bishop said the action was a precaution "due to a spike in the number of young children in Western Australia experiencing fever and convulsions following seasonal flu vaccinations."...
