Polish govt faces probe over swine flu jab ban

Poland’s ombudsman has asked prosecutors to investigate the government for refusing to import swine flu vaccines, calling it an “unacceptable” failure that endangers public health.

Janusz Kochanowski, the country’s top official for defending civil rights, said he requested the investigation today.

Prosecutors must now carry out preliminary fact-finding.

They will decide later whether to open a full investigation.

The government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk has refused to import swine flu vaccines because of what it says is the refusal of producers to take responsibility for possible side effects.

So far, there have been 1,158 confirmed cases of swine flu in Poland and 24 deaths.

Most of those who died had other underlying health conditions.