Flu shots in shortage
dubai — Doctors have reported an unusual increase in the number of flu cases this winter season and the bad news is the flu vaccine is currently in short supply, Khaleej has learnt.
A number of people have complained that the vaccine was unavailable in most medical centres and pharmacies in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates. While some centres said it could be available in a couple of weeks, others said they did not know when the supply would come in. But in Abu Dhabi, medical centres had ordered the vaccines in advance to meet the huge expected demand.
dubai — The flu vaccine is currently in short supply while the demand remains high after doctors have reported an unusual increase in the number of flu cases this winter season.
A number of people said the vaccine was unavailable in most medical centres and pharmacies in Dubai, Sharjah and the northern emirates. While some centres said it could be available in a couple of weeks, others said they did not know when the supply would come in.
However, medical centres in Abu Dhabi said vaccines had been ordered well in advance to meet the huge expected demand.
Last week, doctors said there had been a significant rise in the number of flu cases in the country with noticeably different symptoms. They advised people to take precautions including taking the jab to avoid complications related to flu.
Mohammed Faras, a Sharjah resident, said he had been trying to get the vaccine for himself and his two children but was told it was in short supply. “I checked at least three centres but all said they ran out of stock,” he said.
Likewise, Lina Hassan said: “I called a medical centre in Sharjah and I was told that it was likely to be available in a few weeks but they were not sure,” she said, adding that she wanted the vaccine for the entire family.
“There have been a number of flu cases this season. To be on the safe side, I want my children to take the vaccine but we are not able to find it,” she said.
Khaleej Times called a number of medical centres and pharmacies to confirm the shortage.
Thumbay Clinic in Sharjah said they had a limited stock with only 40 pieces left. “People are coming in asking for this vaccine every day and we may not be able to offer it if
I called a medical centre in Sharjah and I was told that it was likely to be available in a few weeks but they were not sure.” Lina Hassan, Sharjah resident
People are coming in asking for this vaccine every day and we may not be able to offer it if you won’t get it right away.” Sharjah clinic
you won’t get it right away,” said the call centre.
The cost of the vaccine was Dh57. A consultation with a general practitioner was also necessary and costs Dh60.
Prime Medical Centre in Sharjah said they were out of the vaccine and new stock was expected by the second week of December. They said the cost was Dh100 depending on the brand and there was no need for a consultation.
Aster Clinic in Karama (UMC), Dubai, said the vaccine could be available by tomorrow, adding that the central supply unit has no stock left. The price was Dh73 without insurance and no consultation was needed. Four Seasons Pharmacy in Satwa, Dubai, said the vaccine was out of stock. The cost for individual use depended on the brand with one costing Dh26 and another Dh40.
In October this year, a nine-yearold died of flu-related complications while another 17-year-old student also died of complications associated with flu.