WASHINGTON: As the latest initiative in its plan to help the
government protect the public against bioterrorism, the Pharmaceutical
Research & Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has hired Edelman's DC
practice to prepare a campaign that will educate doctors and consumers
about biomedical threats.
With PhRMA, Edelman will develop educational materials, including
brochures, newsletter inserts, and a website that will provide
information to doctors and consumers about bio threats. The campaign
will give tips on how to recognize biomedical hazards such as anthrax,
and also list resources that everyone can use to find out more
information.
"Edelman is providing us with extra arms and legs to develop this
initiative," said Chris Molineaux, VP of public affairs for PhRMA.
This is the first time that Edelman's DC practice has worked with the
industry group.
After the anthrax attacks, PhRMA developed a special Task Force on
Emergency Preparedness that includes many top pharmaceutical companies,
including Bayer, Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly, Merck, Pfizer, and
GlaxoSmithKline.
Dr. Michael Friedman, former leader of the FDA, leads the industry
initiative as chief medical officer for biomedical preparedness.
The group was created so that the pharmaceutical industry could work
with the government on protecting the public from the threat of
biowarfare.