Europe may have delay and shortage of flu vaccine
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The UK’s general practitioners (GPs) were warned on Thursday to expect delays and possible shortages of the seasonal influenza vaccine as manufacturers struggle to produce one of the strains needed for this year’s product.
In a letter sent to GPs today, England’s Chief Medical Officer, Liam Donaldson congratulates them on vaccinating a record number of people in 2005, but warns that problems lie ahead this year.
The Department of Health (DoH) said: “The letter also informs GPs of the latest situation on vaccine supply for the forthcoming flu season. This follows advice from the UK Vaccine Industry Group (UVIG) that there are likely to be Europe-wide delays in deliveries of influenza vaccine and that there may be shortages, as manufacturers are encountering problems growing one of the vaccine virus strains recommended for this year’s seasonal flu vaccine.”
EXTRA VACCINE ORDERED BUT DOUBTS ON SUPPLY
Last year the DoH ordered 14 million doses of vaccine but earlier in the month the department told APM it had ordered an additional 5 percent, or 700,000 doses, for this season after a shortfall last year. However the availability of the extra vaccine now seems in doubt.
The DoH statement continued “This means that although the DoH has reserved more vaccine for the UK for 2006/7, some supplies of flu vaccine will be distributed later than usual.
“However, early notification to GPs through the Chief Medical Officer’s letter will help ensure that the NHS is as prepared as possible for the forthcoming flu season.”
Manufacturers should know the full extent of the problem—particularly the impact on total quantity of vaccine available—by the end of July 2006, the DoH added.
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