Novartis Receives CHMP’s Positive Opinion On Menveo

Novartis has reported that its investigational vaccine, Menveo (Meningococcal Group A, C, W-135 and Y-CRM Conjugate Vaccine) has received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA).

The investigational conjugate vaccine is recommended for active immunisation of adolescents (from 11 years of age) and adults at risk of exposure to Neisseria meningitidis groups A, C, W135 and Y, to prevent invasive disease.

Menveo is designed to help protect against four of the five major groups of meningococcal bacteria, which are leading causes of bacterial meningitis.

Additionally, CHMP is recommending that the European Commission grant Marketing Authorisation for Menveo in all 27 (EU) countries, which is expected during the first quarter of 2010. Regulatory review for Menveo by the FDA is ongoing.

Andrin Oswald, CEO of vaccines and diagnostics at Novartis, said: “This is an important milestone toward our vision to eradicate this devastating, deadly and unpredictable disease. We are confident that broad coverage with Menveo will eventually be available to all age groups.”