Srinagar, Oct 17: The delayed arrival of seasonal influenza vaccines at health facilities across Jammu and Kashmir has raised concerns among Health Department employees, who allege that supplies often reach institutions after October begins, despite vaccination activities needing to start early in the month.
Employees and sources within the department said the delay could affect preparedness for the seasonal rise in influenza cases and disrupt the planned vaccination schedule.
According to the employees, the first week of October is considered an important period for initiating seasonal influenza vaccination. They said health institutions should receive adequate vaccine stocks in advance to ensure that immunisation activities begin on time. However, they alleged that supplies frequently arrive after the month is already underway.
The employees stressed that timely availability of vaccines is essential for health facilities to plan vaccination drives, identify eligible beneficiaries and organise the administration of doses without disruption.
They also expressed concern that delays in distribution could leave healthcare institutions struggling to implement vaccination activities during the intended period. They urged the authorities to ensure better coordination between procurement, supply and distribution so that vaccines reach their destinations before vaccination programmes begin.
Seasonal influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly among older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with certain underlying health conditions. Vaccination remains an important preventive measure, with campaign timing depending on local disease patterns, vaccine availability and official health guidelines.
The employees called on the concerned authorities to review the existing procurement and distribution mechanism and address the reported delays. They said a properly coordinated supply schedule would help health institutions prepare in advance and ensure timely access to vaccination.
They further urged the department to take corrective measures ahead of subsequent influenza seasons to prevent recurring delays and strengthen preparedness across health facilities in Jammu and Kashmir.
