We have heard from several sources that NHSE are looking to crack down on non-first line vaccine use this year.
“Providers who are commissioned NHS flu vaccination providers, are reminded to always use first line vaccines as stated in the 24/25 annual flu letter; “providers should only purchase the alternative second-line vaccines if all attempts to secure the recommended first-line vaccines have failed. Providers may be asked to provide evidence to show this upon request from their commissioner”. Please refer to the National flu immunisation programme 2024 to 2025 letter and the All influenza vaccines marketed in the UK for the 2024 to 2025 season (test version) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)”
If you discover that you have ordered a second line vaccine please take action immediately to minimise the impact. We recommend speaking with your LMC and contacting your supplier immediately to change to a first line product. If this is not possible then early discussions with your ICB via the LMC would be your best course of action.