Major Flu Vaccine Brands Out of Stock in Islamabad Ahead of Winter Season
Sinovac, Vaxigrip and Influvac are currently unavailable at pharmacies across the federal capital, while authorities cite global supply disruptions and pricing constraints.
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Residents of Islamabad are encountering a shortage of seasonal influenza vaccines as winter approaches, with several widely used brands reported to be unavailable at pharmacies across the federal capital, according to local media reports.
Three commonly administered flu vaccines — Sinovac, Vaxigrip and Influvac — are currently missing from the local market, leaving many residents unable to get vaccinated before the flu season. Reports indicate that a number of people have visited multiple pharmacies over the past month without success. Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Obaidullah Malik confirmed that the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccine is expected to be available again by November 15.
A senior official at the Ministry of Health attributed the shortage to international supply disruptions and rising costs. The official said transportation problems linked to the Iran-US conflict have affected global vaccine supplies, while higher import and freight costs have made it difficult for suppliers to sell the products within Pakistan's regulated pricing limits. The official also confirmed that the French vaccine Vaxigrip and the American vaccine Influvac will not be available in Pakistan this year.
Separately, Virionza, another seasonal influenza vaccine still available in the market, has drawn attention over a pricing discrepancy. Its packaging lists a maximum retail price of Rs. 1,304, while the DRAP barcode shows Rs. 654. A Health Ministry official described the difference as a possible error in the barcode system and maintained that the manufacturer is selling the vaccine at the correct price.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said he would investigate the pricing discrepancy. He also clarified that flu vaccines remain available in the market overall, although several major brands are currently out of stock. The developments come as health authorities urge the public to remain informed about vaccine availability as the colder months set in.
