Summary Drug inspectors in Lahore seized suspected counterfeit flu vaccines and apprehended two suspects as officials reported shortages of genuine doses and urged purchases from licensed pharmacies.
LAHORE (Web Desk) – Drug inspectors have seized a large stock of suspected counterfeit flu vaccines and apprehended two suspects during a raid in Lahore, an official said, amid reports of a nationwide shortage of genuine doses.
According to the official, the suspects were arrested at the site of the raid, while the exact location, quantity of vaccines seized and identities of those detained were not disclosed.
The official said an investigation was underway and a first information report (FIR) would be registered against the suspects under the Drugs Act, 1976.
The action comes amid a reported shortage of flu vaccines from major multinational and Chinese manufacturers. The News, citing drug control officials, reported that the scarcity had created an opportunity for suspected spurious products to enter the market.
An official from the office of the chief drug controller Punjab said vaccines from major suppliers were unavailable. He added that limited supplies from two multinational manufacturers might arrive towards the end of November or in December.
Chinese vaccines, which could otherwise help address the shortage, were also unavailable after existing stocks were exhausted, the official said.
Seasonal influenza vaccines are generally administered ahead of winter, when flu cases tend to rise. Vaccination is particularly important for high-risk groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses.
Drug authorities have urged the public to purchase flu vaccines only from licensed pharmacies to reduce the risk of obtaining counterfeit or improperly stored products.
The official advised buyers to check batch numbers and manufacturers’ seals and ensure that vaccines had been stored under the required temperature conditions.
Health minister disputes shortage reports
The development follows Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal’s rejection of reports of a nationwide flu vaccine shortage last week.
Speaking to Geo News, Kamal said vaccines remained available in the market, although certain multinational brands were unavailable.
He attributed the issue to a pricing dispute, saying one manufacturer had sought an increase in the approved price and declined to continue supplying its vaccine at the existing rate.
The minister said the relevant committee had completed its deliberations and forwarded a proposal to the federal cabinet for final approval.
His remarks contrast with those of drug control officials who reported that vaccines from major suppliers were unavailable and that replenishment could take several weeks.
The investigation into the suspected counterfeit vaccines is continuing.
