Flu vaccine manufacturers confirm quantities for winter 2006

1 August 2006

The UK Vaccine Industry Group (UVIG) is pleased to confirm that the volume of flu vaccine available for 2006/07 will total more than 15 million doses.

This volume of vaccine meets the estimates indicated by the Department of Health in March as being required to successfully implement the UK vaccination programme.

In June, UVIG advised UK governments and public health officials, customers and the media that a delay of the 2006 seasonal flu vaccine was anticipated due to the difficulties in growing one of the strains, recommended by the World Health Organisation, for the vaccine. A number of measures were put in place and a longer production period has made good the initial shortfall.

Chairman of UVIG, Paul Rayner said “The bulk of the vaccine will arrive in October and November, and manufacturers will contact GP practices during August with details of delivery schedules so that flu clinics can be organised appropriately.”
Mr Rayner said that UVIG appreciates the co-operation it is receiving from all public health authorities and GPs and their staff in dealing with the delay in supply. UVIG supports fully the Chief Medical Officers’ letters to GPs and guidance to prioritise those people in at-risk groups.

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

Flu vaccine manufacturers confirm quantities for winter 2006

The UK Vaccine Industry Group (UVIG) is pleased to confirm that the volume of flu vaccine available for 2006/07 will total more than 15 million doses.

This volume of vaccine meets the estimates indicated by the Department of Health in March as being required to successfully implement the UK vaccination programme.

In June, UVIG advised UK governments and public health officials, customers and the media that a delay of the 2006 seasonal flu vaccine was anticipated due to the difficulties in growing one of the strains, recommended by the World Health Organisation, for the vaccine. A number of measures were put in place and a longer production period has made good the initial shortfall.

Chairman of UVIG, Paul Rayner said “The bulk of the vaccine will arrive in October and November, and manufacturers will contact GP practices during August with details of delivery schedules so that flu clinics can be organised appropriately.”

Mr Rayner said that UVIG appreciates the co-operation it is receiving from all public health authorities and GPs and their staff in dealing with the delay in supply. UVIG supports fully the Chief Medical Officers’ letters to GPs and guidance to prioritise those people in at-risk groups.

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