‘Shortages in flu vaccine are concerning’

The local Health spokesperson said: “The shortage in the availability of the flu vaccine is deeply concerning. It is particularly concerning that these shortages have led to the suspension of the flu vaccination programme for those eligible under 65 years of age. Some of these people are extremely vulnerable and it is vital they have access to the vaccination.

“There has been increased demand this year which makes the shortage all the more worrying. It is essential people are protected, particularly older and vulnerable people as well as key workers.

“This shortage comes at a time when plans are being prepared for mass COVID-19 testing and hopefully a programme of mass vaccination so it is imperative that there is capacity to ensure delivery.

“We will be raising this with the Health Minister as a matter of urgency and urging him to identify and acquire more doses of this essential vaccine.”

The PHA said the demand for flu vaccine this year had been “phenomenal”.

“This demand has resulted in a temporary pause in the supply of vaccine for eligible people under 65, and additional controls to ensure fairer distribution to all GP practices across Northern Ireland,” a spokesperson said. “To date we have distributed more vaccines in the past few weeks than the entirety of previous flu seasons.”