SOME primary schools in Gloucestershire have delayed important flu vaccinations for young children due to a “national shortage” as colder temperatures begin to sweep in.

At risk children aged two to three years old who have underlying health issues have been prioritised to receive the flu vaccine.

The flu virus starts circulating at different times each year, but typically begins towards the end of December/early January.

Public Health England said last week AstraZeneca, which provides the flu immunisation jab, reported a delay in the delivery of some batches of the childhood nasal spray flu vaccine that were due to arrive in November.

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at Public Health England, said: “We are working with AstraZeneca and NHS England and Improvement to ensure that all eligible children get their flu vaccine as soon as possible.

“Children who have underlying medical conditions that make them more vulnerable flu will be prioritised by GPs first.”

“The delay only relates to some batches of Fluenz Tetra TM vaccine stocks, caused by AstraZeneca’s routine testing process.

“This is not related to the safety or the efficacy of the vaccine itself. The delay does not impact on the injectable flu vaccine being delivered in GP surgeries and pharmacies. The adult flu programme is well underway and PHE is reminding all those aged 65 and over, pregnant women and adults with underlying medical conditions to visit their GP or pharmacist to get their flu vaccine.”

Laurent Abuaf, Country President AstraZeneca UK said: “We realise how important it is to deliver a full supply of vaccine to the NHS and are doing everything possible to minimise the delay of these affected batches.

“As part of our normal product release process, we need to repeat some tests before a portion of our vaccine supply can be released and delivered.

“It is paramount that all batches complete the testing process before they can be supplied, and we are working as fast as possible to achieve this.

“We are committed to working in partnership with Public Health England and the Department of Health and Social Care to support the earliest possible delivery of all the nasal spray vaccine needed for the NHS childhood seasonal flu immunisation programme.”