QIVr flu vaccine not available for 2024/25 flu vaccine programme

Sanofi have confirmed that, due to an unexpected manufacturing issue, the recombinant quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIVr) will now not be available for this year’s adult flu vaccination programme. Sanofi will also contact their customers directly about this.

As a result of this issue, an amendment has been made to the National Flu Immunisation Programme 2024-2025 letter setting out the alternative vaccines that providers can order for the adult programme based on JCVI recommendations. The amendment also signposts to the updated list of influenza vaccines marketed in the UK for 2024/25 which includes manufacturers’ contact details.

To note that for older adults this now includes use of the high-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIV-HD) which will be available in 2024 to 2025 in the UK market. Alternatively, further orders of other first line vaccines, the adjuvanted quadrivalent influenza vaccine (aQIV) for those aged 65+ and cell-based quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIVc) for those under 65 years, should be made. 

The full amendment to the annual flu letter is available here: National flu immunisation programme plan 2024 to 2025 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Providers are responsible for securing alternative supplies of vaccine and should order first line vaccines where possible. This will be reimbursed by NHS England in the usual way. If second line vaccines are ordered, regional commissioning teams may still request evidence that providers have exhausted every attempt to secure alternative first line vaccines before reimbursement is agreed.

As QIVr is only licensed for those aged 18 and over, there is no impact on the children’s vaccination programme.