If you’re planning to receive a flu shot, you may need to be patient this year.
Although vaccinations are not in short supply, shipments from the country’s two manufacturers are delayed nationwide, according to the state Department of Public Health.
“About 150 million doses of the flu vaccine are being made, but because of some technical issues, they are going more slowly than usual,” explained Dr. Kent Stahl of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group.
As a result, it may be November before you are immunized.
“People may have to wait a little longer, but we are asking everyone to be patient and persistent,” said Bill Gerrish, a spokesperson for the state Department of Public Health. “The opportunity to get a flu shot is still wide open, and we should have an ample supply by the peak of flu season.”
Some residents said they’re frustrated by the delay.
“A lot of people don’t want to wait,” said Becky Green, of Hartford. “They don’t have the time to wait. They figure since the flu season is here, then they should [be accommodated].”
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Gerrish said the health department has enough vaccines to immunize young children ages 4 months to 6 years through at their pediatricians’ offices.
“The influenza won’t come until late December, January, and by that time, we’ll have lots of flu vaccines available and they will have time to work before the flu season starts,” Stahl said.
If you plan on receiving a flu shot at a doctor’s office or pharmacy, call ahead to make sure a supply is available.
