Pharmacy needs vax supply boost

A SIZEABLE proportion of the fresh stock of the influenza vaccines ordered by the Federal Government over a week ago for the private market, should be distributed to community pharmacies, Pharmacy Guild of Australia Victorian Branch President, Anthony Tassone, believes.

Speaking with Pharmacy Daily, Tassone said a number of pharmacies have reported difficulties in accessing additional doses of the vaccines, after exhausting their initial orders, due to increased demand for the flu jab as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

Tassone noted the Governmentordered stock, which includes a total of three million doses, including a supply for the private market, had yet to be allocated to immunisers.

“It’s [the Government order] still on its way and it’s not expected until late May/early Jun, and it’s not clear how much of that will be allocated to the private market for community pharmacy,” he said.

“Ensuring as much of that allocation can go towards community pharmacy for the private market as possible will be of great public benefit given the great acceptance that patients have had for vaccinations from community pharmacists.”

Tassone noted community pharmacies have played a critical role in supporting the public during the COVID-19 crisis, ensuring their doors remained open.

MEANWHILE, one pharmacy group manager highlighted flu vaccine shortages on Twitter, noting he had been unable to source any through the major wholesalers or minor distributors.

“There are no vaccines,” he said in a tweet, adding requirements for all aged care facility staff and visitors was currently “not practical or possible”.

“We haven’t had systematic deliveries for weeks,” he said.