The Health Ministry of Japan has decided to continue the suspension of Pfizer and Sanofi. The decision was taken by the Health Ministry after the death of four children between March 2 and March 4. It was reported that the children died soon after the injection of vaccine. The Health Ministry has prolonged the suspension after holding a meeting with an expert panel.

The expert panel reveals that they have not found any clear link between the vaccines and the deaths and further investigation is required into the matter. The two vaccines are manufactured by Pfizer Inc and Sanofi-Aventis SA that prevent meningitis and pneumonia.

The vaccines would not be used until they are approved for use. The vaccines are not distributed in Canada.

Kyodo news agency has reported that the expert panel of Japan would be conducting further checks on the vaccines. Immediate and appropriate action would be taken if a safety concern would be identified.