Influenza vaccine shortage hits Lahore as European supplies fail to arrive

Influenza vaccine supplies have run short in Lahore, leaving residents struggling to find the seasonal flu shot at medical stores and private hospitals.

Influenza vaccine supplies have run short in Lahore, leaving residents struggling to find the seasonal flu shot at medical stores and private hospitals. Vaccines usually imported from Germany and France in September have not arrived in the Pakistani market this year, while supplies of an alternative Chinese product also remain limited.

Medical store owners said two different brands of influenza vaccines, manufactured in Germany and France, usually reach Pakistan in September. However, neither of the expected supplies has arrived this year, creating difficulties for people seeking protection against seasonal influenza.

According to pharmacy operators, the available stock of these vaccines generally lasts for only about a month. Distributors had assured retailers that the new supplies would arrive during the first week of October, but the promised shipments failed to reach the market.

A vaccine manufactured by a Chinese company has become available in Lahore. However, its distribution remains limited to selected areas, certain medical stores and private hospitals. Pharmacy owners said the supply was insufficient to meet demand, making it difficult for residents to obtain the vaccine.

The shortage has also affected people who routinely arrange seasonal flu vaccinations for elderly family members.

One resident said he received an influenza vaccine for his mother every year but had been unable to find one despite searching across Lahore this season. He said his efforts to obtain the vaccine had so far proved unsuccessful.

Medical experts recommend seasonal influenza vaccination for older adults to help strengthen their protection against the virus. They generally advise people to get vaccinated ahead of the peak flu season so their bodies have time to develop an immune response.

September is considered an appropriate time for elderly people to receive the vaccine, according to medical experts. Delays in availability can therefore create difficulties for those who plan their vaccinations ahead of the winter season.

The absence of the expected European supplies, combined with limited stocks of the Chinese alternative, has raised concerns among residents who rely on annual flu vaccination.

With the seasonal vaccination period already underway, the shortage has left people searching for available doses while waiting for regular supplies to reach the market.