Doctors call for more shots
New South Wales doctors says they do not have enough flu vaccines.
Health authorities are calling on the New South Wales state Government to cut red tape and issue supplies faster.
Many are wisely seeking to get their flu shots as early as possible this year, creating waiting lists for flu vaccines.
“Most people run out of it usually with a day or so,” says Dr Harry Nespolon of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
“We're struggling to keep up with the demand at the moment.”
Experts say there is a supply chain issue.
The vaccines come from NSW Health and private suppliers in staggered batches so that they do not overwhelm medical fridges at their destinations.
With the first allotment already gone at many outlets, it will be about a week before they can get more.
NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard had to wait 10 days for his flu shot, and says resolving the issue is a “high priority” for the government.
Authorities say there are enough vaccines, with more than 2.6 million doses available under the National Immunisation Program.
Doctors remain frustrated that they have not received them.
“We've got low community spread of the coronavirus, and the weather is quite good,” Dr Nespolon said.
“As soon as it gets cold, flu season starts proper, so the sooner we get them done, the better.”