FLU vaccines are still in short supply around central Victoria as pharmacists report record demand.
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But most have stocks available for those eligible for free vaccines, because they are at an elevated risk if they contract influenza.
Many pharmacists reported shortages in early April after health leaders warned Victorians to get a flu vaccination early, to limit strain on the health system in case of a pandemic.
At Vanstan's Pharmacy Stacey Mannix said she had seen people over 65 who had never received a flu vaccination before coming in this year.
The pharmacy has easy access to stocks for those over 65, or otherwise at risk.
But Ms Mannix said the pharmacy would not have private stock for the general population for at least another month.
She expected to be very busy when stocks did come in, with a long waiting list at the pharmacy.
Ms Mannix said many people over 65 had come to the pharmacy for vaccination, despite the fact they could have received it free at their general practitioner.
"A lot of people don't want to go to their GP, a fear of catching something there," Ms Mannix said.
At Castlemaine's McKenzie Davey Pharmacy vaccine stock has also not kept up with demand.
Pharmacist Jeremy Byrne said high demand meant the pharmacy had used its entire winter supply within four to six weeks.
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Mr Byrne said the pharmacy had put in back orders, but wasn't sure whether or when they would be filled.
He said it did have a small amount of government funded stock for over 65s, and those most at risk.
"Everyone who's walked in here who's part of the government funding program, has been able to be vaccinated," he said.
Mr Byrne recommended anyone desperate for a vaccine ring around pharmacies and check with their GP clinic.
A spokesperson said the Department of Health did not have oversight or contractual arrangement to oversee forecasting, supply or distribution of vaccines in the private market.
They said this was managed by individual vaccine manufacturers and suppliers.
The Australian Government provides free seasonal influenza vaccinations to those most at risk of complications from influenza through the National Immunisation Program.
The spokesperson said these were now available.
They said the Australian government had secured an additional dose of seasonal influenza vaccines, that would be available to GPs and pharmacies in May and June.
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