Pharmacists warn of meningitis vaccine scarcity with some ‘already out of inventory’
The National Pharmacy Association said 87% of chemists have seen a surge in demand for the jab as the UK battles an “unprecedented” outbreak of the disease
Pharmacists have warned the country may face a shortage of the meningitis vaccine(Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)
Pharmacists have warned they are facing a shortage of meningitis vaccines as the UK rushes to fight an “unprecedented” outbreak of the deadly disease.
The National Pharmacy Association said 87 per cent of chemists have seen a surge in customers seeking the jab. NPA chair Oliver Picard said: “Pharmacies are getting unprecedented levels of requests for vaccinations.
“We understand many patients, including parents with older teenagers, will be concerned by this situation and will be keen to vaccinate themselves or their loved ones.” He added: “However, pharmacies are having to manage constrained levels of supply and many have told us they cannot order in new stock.”
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, CEO of Independent Pharmacies Association, has revealed that vaccine supplies in some areas across the country are “already out of stock.”
He said: “Pharmacies, especially in Kent, but also across south of England are seeing a surge in demand for private Meningitis B vaccinations. But supplies are running low with some pharmacies already out of stock.”
He has urged the NHS to take action and ensure vaccine stock can meet demand. Dr Hannbeck added: “Worried families must not be left to a lottery.”
“The NHS needs to step in and commission a national pharmacy led catch-up programme now and ensure stock is available to meet the demand.” The current outbreak of meningitis has claimed the lives of two people in Kent and the UK health industry has confirmed there are now 20 cases.
The NHS has previously warned about the health issues meningitis can cause. The health service has stated the infection can prove fatal, as it can trigger sepsis.
Taking to X, previously Twitter, the NHS posted: “Meningitis can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. Several vaccinations offer protection against it.”
Most children should receive jabs as part of the standard NHS vaccination programme, but if you’re uncertain, consult your GP to check whether your child’s immunisations are current.
You should dial 999 for an ambulance or head straight to your nearest A&E if you suspect you or someone in your care might have meningitis or sepsis.
Health authorities advise: “Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.” Meningitis typically stems from bacterial or viral infections, with the bacterial form being less common but far more severe than its viral counterpart.
The condition is generally contracted from individuals who harbour these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat without showing any symptoms of illness themselves. Those suspected of having meningitis will typically undergo hospital tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether it’s caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
The NHS states: “Bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week.” Most patients with bacterial meningitis who receive prompt treatment will recover completely, though some may be left with severe long-term complications.
