Federal authorities are procuring additional influenza vaccines due to coronavirus concerns.
Germany boosts flu vaccine stocks in response to pandemic surge
BERLIN - The German federal government has significantly increased its purchase of influenza vaccines for the upcoming season, beyond initial estimates, according to a report by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung. The national reserve being built by the Ministry of Health in addition to regular orders placed by doctors and pharmacies has reached 6 million doses, up from the previous 4.6 million.
Deliveries have already commenced, with the majority expected in November, bringing the total supply to around 26 million doses, approximately 6 million more than the previous year. However, the Robert Koch Institute's Standing Vaccination Commission recommends vaccinating about 40 million inhabitants for the 2020-2021 season, particularly older individuals and healthcare workers, to prevent co-infections with both influenza and COVID-19.
Potential shortages in vaccine supply have been flagged by the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (KBV), cautioning of an imminent supply shortage based on internal documents. Doctors and pharmacists have also reported an unusually high demand for the flu vaccination this fall.
The surge in demand, logistical challenges, and delays in production and distribution brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic could have contributed to localized shortages or temporary disruptions in certain regions or populations despite increased federal government purchasing.
In times of pressuring circumstances, it is essential to prioritize and assure disease prevention interventions for individuals most at risk of severe illness, as is the case with older people and healthcare workers during this flu season.
Other science-based health-and-wellness measures, such as wearing masks and social distancing, remain crucial for reducing the risk of both influenza and COVID-19 infections, particularly among high-risk populations.
The German government's substantial increase in flu vaccine stocks is a significant step towards preventing co-infections and ensuring access to vaccines for those who are most vulnerable during this demanding health season.
