Halton politicians worry about flu shot shortages

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Published September 17, 2020 at 7:54 pm

The fear that high demand for flu shots could lead to local shortages has some local politicians worried.

The fear that high demand for flu shots could lead to local shortages has some local politicians worried.

At yesterday’s Halton Regional council meeting the issue was raised based on concerns over supply issues last year.

Oakville Ward 7 Councillor Pavan Parmar pointed out that in 2019, when the world was still pre-COVID, there was not enough flu vaccine to go around.

With the expectation that demand will increase this year, she said she is worried we could fall into the situation again when the need is even more important.

Experts fear an outbreak of influenza could seriously harm the ability of the healthcare industry to cope in light of an expected surge in COVID that could exacerbate other illnesses and cause the system to become overburdened with those who need hospitalization.

Halton’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hamidah Meghani pointed out the regional health department is not responsible for ordering the flu vaccine as its role is to make sure it is distributed throughout Halton.

Dr. Meghani acknowledged the shortages last year, but added the Provincial government is trying to procure as many doses as possible.

“However there is a global demand for the flu vaccine this year,” she said adding Ontario will be competing with all jurisdictions in the Northern Hemisphere that are asking for an increase in supply. “We will all be undergoing the flu season at the same time and everyone is looking for additional doses.”

She said suppliers understand the increased global demand and they are trying to manufacture more doses globally. “But again, as to what share Ontario will receive is yet to be seen.”

Dr. Meghani said it is important for those who are most vulnerable to let their healthcare providers know in advance that they need the flu vaccine to make sure their needs are met.

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