57th report: WHO TRS N°962: 2006

Overview

The WHO Expert Committee on Biological Standardization met in Geneva from 23 to 27 October 2006. The meeting was jointly opened by Dr J.M. Okwobele, Director, Department of Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals, and Dr H. Hogerzeil, Director, Department of Policy and Standards for Medicines, on behalf of the Director-General.

The report starts with a discussion of general issues brought to the attention of the Committee and provides information on the status and development of reference materials for various antibodies, antigens, blood products and related substances, cytokines, growth factors, and endocrinological substances. The second part of the report, of particular relevance to manufacturers and national regulatory authorities, contains WHO recommendations and guidelines on human papillomavirus vaccines; meningococcal A conjugate vaccines; and stability evaluation of vaccines. Also included are a list of recommendations, guidelines and other documents for biological substances used in medicine, and of international standards and reference reagent for biological substances.