New cystic fibrosis drugs available

Three new cystic fibrosis drugs will be available to islanders after an agreement was made between the Government of Jersey and the manufacturer.

Jersey clinicians will be able to prescribe Orkambi, Symkevi and Kalydeco - which are used to treat people who have the genetic disorder cystic fibrosis – within the next few weeks. The deal between Health and Community Services and the manufacturer Vertex is similar to the one secured by NHS England last month. Details of the deal between HCS and Vertex are confidential.

The drugs, which will be funded from the HCS budget, will only be prescribed by Hospital specialists and dispensed by the Hospital pharmacy.

Health Minister Deputy Richard Renouf said: "It is absolutely wonderful news that islanders with cystic fibrosis will now be able to be treated by these drugs. These drugs will improve their lives and also means that Jersey is inline with the UK."