PHARMACIES are now able to stock up with a vaccine against the H1N1 strain of flu, according to the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA). For 2010, the World Health Organisation designated that a vaccine for influenza A H1N1 strain should be included amongst three contained in the seasonal influenza vaccines. The vaccines are usually made available in the public and private sector. However, this year, due to the low yield of one of the strains of virus, manufacturers were unable to supply vaccines in sufficient quantity. This meant that until now the vaccine was not available through the private sector community pharmacies. However, as part of the Department of Health's recent influenza vaccination campaign, it became possible to obtain additional supplies of the relevant vaccine. The PSSA said that community pharmacies would make the vaccine available to high-risk patients at a nominal charge.

SAPA, 29 June 2010