Flu jab campaign a 'victim of its own success'

Thursday 29 October 2020

More than 21,000 people across the Bailiwick have already been for their flu jabs but, with the vaccine in very high demand globally this year, stocks in Guernsey are beginning to run low.

Islanders were encouraged to take up the vaccine this year more than ever, to avoid putting an extra strain on the health service while the covid pandemic continues.

Thousands have followed the advice, including 10,000 people aged 65 and over who are offered the vaccine for free.

"This take-up is significantly above previous years and shows our community are continuing to come together to help protect health and care services through the winter period," a spokesperson for Health & Social Care said. "This unprecedented uptake has, however, made the campaign a victim of its own success with all initial orders allocated."

HSC has contacted primary care providers and pharmacists to check how many vaccines they have remaining. If possible, the committee will then redistribute them elsewhere, rather than have providers stockpiling reserves.

Pictured: Children from age two up to school Year Seven can have the vaccination for free.

"HSC has, over recent months, taken all possible steps to secure as many vaccines as possible for our vulnerable cohorts but this has been difficult given the international high demand," the spokesperson continued. "It is, however, usual for manufacturers to stagger deliveries of the vaccine and this year is no different."

Further deliveries of the vaccinations for those aged 18-64 are expected next week, but there isn't another planned delivery of vaccinations for those aged 65 and over.

"As soon as the level required has been established, HSC will endeavour to secure a further order," the spokesperson added.

Anyone who has already booked their appointment at a flu clinic will have their vaccine as scheduled.

For more information on the vaccinations and who is eligible to receive one free of charge, click HERE.