CUMBRIANS are being assured that their flu vaccines are on there way after confusion over supplies.

This year's flu vaccine is in the middle of being rolled out winter draws near, but reports that people needing the vaccination were being turned away are far from the mark.

The new vaccine known as Fluad offers better protection for the elderly against the ever evolving flu virus, but Barrow and the surrounding area are running low on the vaccine.

This year the flu vaccine is being rolled out in batches, with the third and final batch due to be shipped next month.

Ben Merriman, Practice Pharmacist at Waterloo Surgery in Millom said: “GP practices in the Morecambe Bay area have seen a keen demand for the flu vaccination from patients who are over 65.

“This year there is a phased roll out of the vaccination programme for people aged 65 and over.

"The next set of GP vaccination clinics for this group are due to take place in November, which will coincide with the next deliveries of vaccines.

"Patients can book an appointment with their practice in advance. Alternatively, patients can get a free flu vaccine at a community pharmacy.

“Please contact your own GP practice or your local pharmacy to be advised when stock will be available.”

Despite two batches of the vaccine having already been rolled out, pharmacists and GP’s have still been running out of the vaccine, although staff are assuring members of the public that supplies will be restocked.

The vaccines that are being pushed for under 18s and people between the ages of 18 and 65 have not been an issue during the distribution of the vaccines.

A possible reason for the stocks running low during October may be due to how the NHS has chosen to distribute it, with 40 per cent of supplies being shipped in September and November, but only 20 per cent has been shipped during October.

Some people may now have to wait until November to receive the flu vaccine when pharmicists and GPs stocks are renewed.