Flu vaccine supplies

[MRex]

Does anyone know if it is a temporary shortage, or just a factor of the extra time to distribute roll out vaccines while adhering to covid guidelines?

I got mine done but I am pregnant so entitled to it. But it was quite bizarre - I had an appointment with the nurse for another vaccine (pregnancy related) and before the appointment I emailed the surgery asking if I could also get the flu jab at the same time, because obviously that would be the most efficient thing for all concerned. Was told no. Fine. At my appointment the nurse offered me the flu jab anyway even though you can't book an appointment for it. Really weird. I don't understand why they have the vaccine in stock but aren't allowing people to book appointments for it - surely it makes sense to start vaccinating the population as soon as possible?!

@TheLette - it is odd, I agree. It looks like there is availability of all the vaccines at least to some degree, but our GP won't book DH nor DS even though they will be on the list later.

Def check local pharmacies. I tried Boots & they were full/over 65’s. But my local pharmacies had loadsa appointments including paid for vaccines that my OH & Dad had.

My DD who is 3 is having the nasal spray next week along with her pre-school vaccines..

Me and OH are both booked in at the GP for 8th October.

I can't remember if it's later than normal or not

Adult DD and I usually get flu vaccine early on in Boots. More of a priority this year as her uni suggested getting before returning. Bit of a, mad scramble to find an appointment - eventually found in a Tesco 15 miles away for this week.

I've booked mine and my husband's at our local pharmacy for Weds. I'm vulnerable though so I've always been eligible for the free jab at the first part of the year when they come out. I could have got it done at my drs but that would have been on the 10th oct. I teach so I wanted it done asap. Supply and demand seems fine here but this is currently for vulnerable groups (my husband is my carer)

Had mine last week after routine blood test.

The shortfall in flu vaccines is worrying.

There are none left for those aged 65 and over at my GP's or at any of the chemists locally - although all have supplies left of flu vaccine for younger people.

My GP practice says that they do not intend to order any more. The Pharmacies say that they will be trying to get more supplies but do not know if they will be able to (this includes Boots, Lloyds and independent Pharmacies).

Am I in a flu-vaccine desert for the over 65's or is this a widespread problem??

As well as being over 65 I have had the flu jab every year for several years due to a chronic health condition that makes me more vulnerable.

I have written to my MP about it but no reply yet. The Government issued instructions in May for extra vaccines to be ordered this year, due to increased risks of serious complications due to Covid-19.

Then in July there was a Government Press Release saying they would be increasing flu vaccine significantly, for over and under 65's.

Despite that, this is the first year I am aware of there being a shortage of flu vaccine.