Health
Flu-vaccine deliveries delayed in Switzerland, officials say no shortage is expected
Some flu-vaccine deliveries to Switzerland are delayed this autumn, affecting about 40% of doses, according to RTS. The Federal Office of Public Health says there should still be enough vaccines for everyone who wants one before the seasonal flu wave begins.
About 40% of flu-vaccine doses headed for Switzerland are affected by delivery delays this autumn. The disruption is already changing appointment schedules at vaccination centres and medical practices, with some products arriving later than planned. RTS reported the delays, while the Federal Office of Public Health says the country should still have enough supply for everyone who wants a jab before the seasonal flu wave begins.
That timing gives health authorities several weeks to complete vaccinations. The FOPH says Switzerland's flu season generally starts in the second half of December, and recommends vaccination from mid-October until the wave begins. The current supply problem therefore affects when people can book an appointment, rather than indicating that the national stock will run out.
The delays matter most for people who should secure protection early, including older adults, pregnant women and people with medical conditions that increase the risk of complications. Pharmacies, doctors and vaccination centres will need to manage staggered deliveries and communicate clearly about which products are available.
For patients, the practical advice is to check availability with a provider before travelling and to use the national vaccination weeks in November. The FOPH's assessment remains that vaccination will be accessible before influenza activity rises across Switzerland.
Clinics Adjust the November Schedule
Unisanté has already divided access by vaccine and patient group. Efluelda became available there on 12 October for people over 75 and for people over 65 who have a prescription for the vaccine. Vaccination with Vaxigrip is scheduled to begin on 9 November, illustrating how the delays are feeding into separate rollout dates rather than one uniform campaign.
Two nationwide vaccination weeks will give patients additional opportunities to get protected. Participating medical practices and pharmacies will offer vaccinations from 2 to 7 November, followed by a second campaign from 23 to 28 November. The dates cover the period before the usual start of the flu wave and are designed to make access easier through familiar local healthcare providers.
Patients should ask which vaccine their provider has received and whether an appointment is required. Older people who have been prescribed a specific product may need to wait for that product or consult their doctor about the appropriate timing. Pharmacies and practices can also explain whether they are taking part in either national week.
The staggered schedule is especially relevant in French-speaking Switzerland, where Unisanté's dates provide a clear example of how providers are adapting to the supply calendar. The FOPH expects the overall system to meet demand despite the late deliveries.