THE Federal Government has secured an additional 800,000 influenza vaccinations, on top of the almost 10 million doses already released this flu season under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), state programs and on the private market.
The total figure now represents an increase of 26.5% on last year, and the enhanced trivalent vaccines for seniors make up more than 3.4 million of the doses - enough to vaccinate over 85% of all individuals aged 65 and over.
Acting chief medical officer Dr Anthony Hobbs confirmed that Seqirus had agreed to recommence production of Australian seasonal influenza vaccines to ensure the NIP is able to meet demand.
On Fri GSK Australia issued a statement explaining that all pre-ordered Fluarix Tetra doses for the 2018 season, along with additional vaccinations ordered in reserve, had already been fully distributed, reflecting a high take-up of flu vaccination in the last two months.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 28 May 18
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