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Millions in UK unable to get flu jab as supplies run short... amid warnings over possible deadly combination with Covid-19

Flu jab: This year's standard vaccination does not include 'Japanese' flu, which is spreading: AFP/Getty Images
Flu jab: This year's standard vaccination does not include 'Japanese' flu, which is spreading: AFP/Getty Images

Millions of people were today unable to get a flu jab after supplies run short following Government warnings to get it to avoid a potentially deadly combination of the illness and Covid-19.

On its booking services, Boots was telling people this morning: “Unfortunately we have had to suspend bookings for the Winter Flu Jab Service.”

It added: “Due to unprecedented demand for flu vaccinations this year and stock availability we have had to suspend bookings.​​​​​​​ “We are working hard to acquire additional stock of the flu vaccine so that we are able to make appointments available again.”

People 65 and over, as well as younger people, could sign up to be told when bookings became available.

Some vulnerable groups were believed to be able to get the vaccine at the moment.

Other pharmacists and GPs were also reported to be struggling to get enough flu jabs to meet demand.

Asked if chemists and family doctors were having to “ration” the flu vaccine, Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News: “We have record amounts of flu vaccine in the country.

“I’m also very pleased to see that having launched the flu programme this week we have record amounts of demand for it, that is a very good thing.

“In the first instance, the flu vaccine must go to the clincially most vulnerable which is the over 65s and those with other health conditions.

“But then we intend to roll it out more broadly after that.”

Pressed by presenter Kay Burley on whether the Government has enough supplies, he responded: “We have got more than we have ever had before.”

Asked the same question again, he said: “We have 30 million doses, that is more than enough for all the people who are vulnerable...and once we have got the doses as much as possible to the most vulnerable, then we will roll it out to others, for instance of working age.

“Given that we have 30 million doses, I want to make sure that they are available for the people to whom flu can kill.”

Ministers launched a huge publicity campaign urging people to get the flu jab because of worries about people getting a combination of the illness with coronavirus.

Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, the deputy chief medical officer for England, said: “Flu can be deadly and it is easily spread in children and adults. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from becoming ill with the flu, especially if you are in a vulnerable group.

“This winter with Covid still circulating, and the increased risk to life if you are ill with both viruses simultaneously, it is even more vital to get the free jab as soon as you can.”

However, pharmacists and some GPs have been overwhelmed by demand for the vaccination.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) said independent pharmacies have had to reduce the rate of vaccination.

Robbie Turner, RPS Director of Pharmacy, told the BBC: “This year many more people are anticipating receiving a flu vaccination and they need assurance that sufficient stocks are available.

“We will continue to talk with government on the supply of vaccines, and how pharmacists can support those who are most at risk.”

Family doctors were also urging ministers to ensure there are enough jabs available.

Professor Martin Marshall, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: “For the expanded programme to be effective, the government must ensure that there is an adequate supply of vaccines for everyone who wants one in the wider group of patients who are now eligible.

“The RCGP has called for assurances from government that there will be enough supplies to go around - and for guidance for GPs as to who, outside of those patients most at risk, should be prioritised for a flu jab, should supply be limited and for clear public messaging about this in order to manage patients’ expectations.”

The Department of Health and Social Care is expected to send out guidance soon on how health professionals can get hold of extra stockpiles if needed.

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