ACT Health has acted to dispel concerns that some flu vaccines are in short supply, assuring the ACT community that adequate stocks are available.
“ACT Health is aware of nationwide supply issues with some flu vaccines,” the Health Directorate said.
“There has been a record uptake of the vaccination across the country and in the ACT, with a 25–30 per cent increase in demand.”
It said this was good news as it means the community is understanding the dangers of influenza and the importance of getting the flu shot.
ACT Health said there was no immediate risk of running out of vaccine for groups of people who were eligible to receive free, Government-funded vaccine because of their increased risk of complications from influenza.
“These groups are pregnant women, children aged six months to under five years, adults aged over 65 years, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons aged more than 15 years and all people aged over six months who had certain medical conditions,” the Agency said.
“ACT Health officials are working together with the Federal Department of Health and other jurisdictions to manage this issue.”
ACT Health said it could assure the ACT community that it would continue to work with the Department and vaccine suppliers and do everything possible to ensure supply was maintained.
“The Federal Department of Health is also working closely with companies to ensure additional vaccines are brought into Australia,” it said.
