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PSNC reassures contractors on flu vaccine stock levels

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PSNC reassures contractors on flu vaccine stock levels

In light of media reports on flu vaccination shortages in pharmacies, the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee has issued a statement to reassure contractors that stocks are still available through the pharmacy wholesaler market. 

PSNC said that stocks are traditionally lower at this time of year as the peak vaccination period draws to a close, but that increased infection rates this flu season mean that high demand is likely to continue for longer than usual. However, most pharmacies should be able to restock quickly as needed, the organisation said.

PSNC director of NHS Services Alastair Buxton said: “As we reach the end of the traditional period for vaccinating people against flu, it would be normal for community pharmacies to be running stocks down as part of their stock management systems. However, as we are seeing increasing flu levels this year, many are likely to continue vaccinating people for the immediate future.

“While stock is clearly not as plentiful as it was at the start of the season, supplies are available within the pharmacy wholesale market, and with community pharmacies often receiving two deliveries of medicines per day from wholesalers, most should be able to restock quickly if needed.

“Although we are now well into the flu season, it is not too late to have a flu vaccination, and people aged under 65 in at-risk groups are particularly encouraged to do so. Community pharmacies can offer NHS flu vaccinations to people in eligible groups on a walk-in basis.”

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