GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Europe's largest pharmaceutical group claimed on Wednesday to have created the most effective vaccine so far against the deadly H5N1 strain of bird flu. -AFP file photo

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Europe's largest pharmaceutical group claimed yesterday to have created the most effective vaccine so far against the deadly H5N1 strain of bird flu.

Glaxo said that this was a "significant breakthrough" and now hopes the treatment could be available for commercial use as soon as next year.

Glaxo said its vaccine produced the highest reported immune response at a low dosage because of a special "adjuvant" - an ingredient which stimulates the immune system and boosts the body's response to the vaccine.

A key challenge in the race to produce a vaccine for millions of people around the world—which governments are keen to stockpile—is how to make the maximum number of shots from the minimum amount of antigen, or active ingredient.

Glaxo's vaccine contains just 3.8 micrograms of antigen, yet more than 80 percent of healthy adult volunteers who received two doses had a strong immune response.

That level of protection meets or exceeds requirements set by regulatory agencies for approving new flu vaccines.

Glaxo said analysis of its clinical trials, which were carried out in Belgium, had shown a significantly high immune response among the participants, despite the vaccine containing a low amount of antigen.

The deadly N5N1 flu strain, which originated in Asia but has since spread rapidly, has already killed 130 people who have come into contact with infected birds.

Experts, including the World Health Organisation, fear that if its spread is not contained there could be a worldwide human flu pandemic that would see millions die.