The Financial Times is reporting that Novartis (NVS) has refused to offer free H1N1 (swine flu) vaccines to low-income nations, saying developing nations or donor nations should cover the costs.

NVS head honcho Daniel Vasella told the Financial Times that he would, however, consider offering discounted pricing.

Vasella’s refusal comes after Margaret Chan, WHO director-general, asked vaccine makers last week to show “solidarity” in offering vaccines to the poor. Vasella said this about poor countries paying for the vaccines:

“If you want to make production sustainable, you have to create financial incentives.”

Which makes us ask: what do you guys think? Should NVS offer free swine flu vaccine to developing nations?

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