THERE is currently no flu vaccine shortage in Reading but health bosses are keeping a close eye on the supply as demand rises.

Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) says it is “monitoring vaccine supply closely” to ensure it can “maintain adequate supplies of vaccination for the high-risk patient groups”.

The NHS organisation, which is responsible for Reading, Wokingham and West Berkshire, is also aiming to vaccinate 50,000 schoolchildren this winter (with parental permission), as they can “spread the virus easily”.

High risk-patients are being prioritised for a vaccination against the “extremely contagious virus” and being sent invitations to vaccination clinics, says the CCG.

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GP surgeries and pharmacies in other parts of the UK have suspended bookings for the jab this week, as demand has outstripped supply.

This year, around 30 million people are being offered a free flu jab because the government is concerned about vulnerable people catching flu and coronavirus at the same time – as this can have deadly consequences.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson also hopes the move will relieve pressure on the NHS this winter.

Over 65s, people in high-risk groups, front-line healthcare and social workers, and those who live with someone that is shielding are being prioritised for the jab.

Healthy people between the age 50 and 64 will then be eligible for a free vaccination, for the first time.

A Berkshire West CCG spokeswoman said: “Each year there is a new strain of the virus, and the change in vaccine reflects this; even if you had a vaccination last year it is important to have it again this year.

“Having the vaccination helps protect you and also those around you.

“It is important to note that the flu vaccination does not protect you from Covid-19, so adherence to national messages on hand hygiene, social distancing and wearing face masks are still vital in helping keep you well this winter.”

“At the beginning of November NHS England will undertake a review of vaccine availability.

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“This will inform how the offer of vaccination for 50-64 year olds will be managed.

She added: “Further guidance will be issued in November which will confirm the proportion of this age group which will be eligible for vaccination.

“Any 50-64 year old already in an at risk group or a household contact of a shielding patient is currently eligible for vaccination.

“Given the list of eligible people has increased this year the CCG are monitoring vaccine supply closely with NHS England, local pharmacies and GP surgeries.

“This oversight ensures we are fully aware of the changing situation and can maintain adequate supplies of vaccination for the high risk patient groups.

“We know both GP surgeries and pharmacies are experiencing high demand and have vaccinated thousands of patients in the first few weeks of the programme.”