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28 May 2018
One of the most common questions APNA’s nurse support line has been answering over the past week has been: How do we reduce anxiety in our at risk groups (especially the over 65s) when there’s an influenza (flu) vaccine shortage?
Image: If you can relate to the 'waiting skeleton', we've got some tips for managing the flu vaccine shortage.
Your State Department of Health
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Letting them know that the delay does not mean they cannot be protected this year – in fact the best time to be vaccinated is late May–June to ensure they have full coverage for when the winter/flu season is in full swing (peak influenza circulation in Australia is typically June to September). The flu vaccine is most effective in the first 3–4 months following vaccination1.
Ensure all staff in your clinic (receptionists, general practitioners, nurses, other) are aware of and understand the protocol and management of influenza vaccination appointments and the difference between government funded and private stock. This may need to change and be clearly communicated on a daily basis, depending on stock levels and availability.
Do any other local general practice clinics have stock available? Often clinics might borrow stock from other clinics if appropriate and/or capacity to do so.
The ATGI Influenza fact sheet states it’s perfectly fine to use alternate vaccines for 65+[1]. However, no studies have been conducted on giving the higher-immunogenicity trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV) following quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIVs). If neither of the recommended TIVs are available, then a QIV should be used. The use of multiple types of vaccines (e.g. an adjuvanted TIV with a standard QIV) has not been studied.
Finally: Remember, prevention is always better than a cure
References
[1] Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) [Internet] 2018. Available from https://beta.health.gov.au/resources/publications/atagi-advice-on-seasonal-influenza-vaccines-in-2018
[2] You Never Forget the Flu https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/campaigns/you-never-forget-the-flu-b