British pharmacists are concerned that the decision to delay the flu vaccination campaign will lead to wasted vaccines. Typically, the National Health Service (NHS) begins its annual vaccination drive on September 1, but this year it won’t kick off until October. The delay is intended to align the flu jab campaign with the rollout of Covid vaccines. However, the Community Pharmacy England (CPE), representing the country’s community pharmacies, is calling for a reversal of the last-minute decision.
In a letter to health ministers Neil O’Brien and Maria Caulfield, the CPE expressed its concerns about the late announcement and the substantial change to the campaign’s start date. Health officials have confirmed that only over-65s will be eligible for flu vaccines this winter, excluding millions aged 50-64 who were eligible during the pandemic. Originally, health officials planned to limit the campaign to only over-65s, despite warnings that this would leave millions vulnerable. The decision to delay the start date may have an impact on vaccine supply, causing frustration for patients who must rebook appointments.
Pharmacists worry that the shortened timeframe may lead to wastage of pre-ordered stock, as the vaccines have expiration dates. Dr Leyla Hannbeck, CEO of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, criticized the last-minute decision-making process and urged for better communication from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and NHS England.
The Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, Nick Kaye, criticized the delay, stating that it makes no sense and causes confusion. He emphasized the potential wastage of pre-ordered stock and the cancellation of thousands of appointments. Kaye called for the reinstatement of the September start date to protect people from illness and alleviate the strain on pharmacies.
Alastair Buxton, Director of NHS Services at CPE, warned that patients would suffer the consequences of this decision. He urged the NHS to reverse the change without delay and emphasized the operational and financial challenges faced by pharmacies. The delay in the immunisation drive could result in frustration for patients and reduce pharmacies’ capacity to provide other essential healthcare services.
While Covid cases are on the rise in the UK, with a new variant known as Eris (or EG.5.1) accounting for a considerable proportion of cases, health experts have differing opinions on the delay. Some see it as short-sighted, warning that flu and Covid cases may surge before vulnerable individuals receive their booster jabs. Others view the delay as a sensible adjustment as the country adapts to post-pandemic life.
Ultimately, eligible individuals are expected to receive both the Covid booster and flu jab during the same appointment, with injections in each arm. Private clinics, which offer flu jabs for a fee, are likely to align their rollout with the NHS service. The JCVI has published advice on the eligibility for flu jabs and Covid boosters, limiting them to over-65s, at-risk individuals, healthcare and social care workers, and residents in care homes for older adults, among others.
The delayed start of the flu vaccination campaign could cause confusion and frustration among the public. It remains uncertain when and how eligible groups will be able to book their appointments for the Covid and flu jabs. The NHS advises Britons to wait for further information before coming forward.
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