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Community Pharmacy England (CPE) has warned that high demand for flu vaccinations in the first month of the full seasonal immunisation programme has placed supplies under considerable strain.

Stock levels of IIvc vaccines are under “particular pressure” with some pharmacies having reportedly run out, the negotiator said today (November 3).

“Based on reports on the availability of the other first-line vaccine this season, IIVc will have been the main first-line vaccine used in the 18-49 years cohort of patients,” said CPE, adding that there are no supplies available from wholesalers or from Seqirus, the manufacturer.

CPE said a number of contractors have asked in what circumstances a second-line vaccine such as IIve may be used instead.

It reminded pharmacies that NHS guidance states that when a first-line vaccine is out of stock, they should redirect patients to an alternative provider who has stock or tell them to rebook when stock becomes available.

This will require communication between pharmacies and GP surgeries, said CPE, adding that LPCs “may be able to support that local communication”. 

It added: “Where no first-line stock is available locally, pharmacy owners can then offer patients administration of a second-line vaccine. In the case of the 18 to 49 years patient cohort, that would be IIVe.

“If pharmacy owners are considering use of a second-line flu vaccine, they should keep a record of actions taken to ascertain the local availability of first-line vaccine prior to offering patients second-line vaccines.”

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