FLU VACCINE SUPPLY FOR THE 2006/07 SEASON

28 June 2006

The UK Vaccine Industry Group (UVIG) has announced that it anticipates delays in the production of influenza vaccine for the 2006/07 season in the European market. This delay affects all manufacturers and is due to the low manufacturing yield of one of the strains (H3N2) recommended by the WHO.

Consequently it is likely that fewer doses of the seasonal flu vaccine will be available initially, and some supplies will be distributed later than usual. Manufacturers have extended their production campaigns and are now reviewing the quantity and timings of vaccine availability. As more information becomes available, they will contact customers directly from the end of July and throughout August to confirm their revised delivery plans.

The Chief Medical Officer for England has issued his annual letter regarding the influenza immunisation policy for 2006/2007 which contains guidance to help GPs plan their influenza campaigns for the coming season. UVIG supports the guidance and recommendations within this letter.

The annual influenza campaign is an important public health initiative and UVIG is working closely with relevant authorities throughout the UK to manage the situation.