Delay hits flu vaccine to Highland primary schools; region hit by UK-wide delivery delays
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NHS Highland has postponed primary school flu vaccination sessions due to a UK-wide delay in deliveries of the vaccine.
The health authority received fewer deliveries of the nasal spray Fluenz Tetra than it had ordered and expected.
A spokesman said as a result it had postponed vaccination sessions due to take place this week and next.
"This has been undertaken to manage the available vaccine supply for those at most risk of the complications from flu," he said.
"We are working hard to arrange further opportunities for vaccination for all the children affected. We will write to parents when the national supply issue is resolved and the alternative arrangements are confirmed.
"In the meantime, any child flu vaccines which are available nationally and locally will be prioritised for use in pre-school children aged two to five and those school children aged five to18 years with underlying health conditions. These children are at greatest risk from complications of the flu virus."
The anticipated delay is currently between two and four weeks and affects all parts of the UK.
The spokesman added: "We appreciate that this situation is very challenging for all involved and apologise for any inconvenience caused.
"Our priority is to protect as many children as possible from the effects of flu and help reduce its spread in the community to other vulnerable individuals. We are extremely grateful for the understanding and cooperation from parents."
