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NHS quash flu vaccine fears
Concerns for supply of the flu vaccine in Lanarkshire postBrexit have been allayed by the NHS.
Charity Age Scotland have been encouraging older people to get the vaccine ahead of the Brexit deadline as a no deal exit would “likely threaten the flu vaccine supply”.
Shortages in medication and qualified health and care staff – predicted in a no deal scenario – could have a significant impact on the most vulnerable people in the county.
Brian Sloan, chief executive of Age Scotland, feels it is vital that there is no disruption to the supply of the vaccine.
He said: “We have serious concerns about the impact of Brexit on Scotland’s older and most vulnerable people.
“It’s really important that older people get the lifesaving flu vaccine as we head into winter, particularly if they have underlying health conditions which could be exacerbated if they were to contract the flu.
“It’s quick, safe and prevents hundreds of deaths and thousands of GP and hospital hours each year and Brexit shouldn’t be a barrier.”
Doctors and NHS leaders have previously warned that a no-deal Brexit would disrupt the supply of this year’s vaccine which cannot be stockpiled.
France- based Sanofi – one of the vaccine’s main suppliers – have reported delays due to a manufacturing problem which could affect 40 per cent of its first-phase deliveries.
There is also the risk that the cost of supply might go up if there are no trade and tariff agreements in place.
Mr Sloan added: “We need urgent reassurances that anyone who depends on a particular medicine will still be able to access it or a suitable alternative, and these will be fairly distributed to those who need them most.
“Age Scotland has tried repeatedly to meet with the Secretary of State for Scotland but have only heard radio silence.
“Any delay in giving vulnerable patients this vaccination at the start of flu season is wholly unacceptable. Ultimately, this could lead to hospitals being overwhelmed and an increased risk of avoidable excess deaths if there were to be a heavy outbreak of flu this winter.”
A spokesperson for NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) said: “The vaccines required for the 2019/2020 season have already been purchased and are being held at warehouses within the UK.
“Supplies are regularly being transported to our GPs and hospitals.”
NHS Lanarkshire have also urged eligible residents – including over- 65s, children aged two to five and people with a health condition such as diabetes, breathing problems or heart and kidney conditions – to get the vaccine.
Dr David Cromie, consultant in public health for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “We advise all of our patients and members of our local community to take up the offer of the vaccination.
“This is the best way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza.”