Avian Flu Update VI
Daniel Drezner asks "Is anyone ready?" and many ask should we stiff Roche?
Both are important questions, and while Daniel answers No to the first (and this should irritate all of us), the second is very interesting.
I agree with Tyler Cowen, but would Roche agree to such a plan?
What do we do if they do not?
After all, Gilead (the inventor of Tamiflu) is not getting what they want from Roche, which is simply make, make, make and sell, sell, sell!
Both India and Taiwan are not satisfied with their ability to buy, buy, buy and are investigating making Tamiflu in violation of patents.
What will we do when people start to die -- if it isn't too late already?
UPDATE:
If anyone is keeping score in the blogosphere, here is the pro-property rights short list:
• Tyler Cowen
• Professor Bainbridge
• The Glittering Eye
• A Stitch in Haste
Versus the steal it and make it now since Roche can't make it fast enough short list:
• Stephen Gordon
• Andrew Sullivan
• Dean Baker
More Recent Updates:
Avian Flu Update VII
Previous Updates:
Avian Flu Update V
Avian Flu Update IV
Avian Flu Update III
Avian Flu Update II
Avian Flu Update
Avian Bird Flu Pandemic