Drugmakers Form Emergency Task Force

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. 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 scient...