Private pharmacies in Cyprus face cancellation of influenza vaccine orders

Private pharmacies across Cyprus have been abruptly notified that their pre-ordered shipments of influenza vaccines will not be fulfilled. The news, delivered on October 9, 2026, has caused significant concern, as these orders were placed six to eight months ago in accordance with established procurement procedures. The supplier cited production delays and planning issues resulting from the recent update of the three influenza strains for the 2026–2027 season as the primary reason for the failure to deliver the vaccines by the expected mid-October date.

Ploutarchos Georgiadis, president of the Pancyprian Pharmaceutical Association, stated that the association is actively engaging with the Ministry of Health and the Pharmaceutical Services. They are requesting that the state intervene to provide vaccines from existing government supplies to cover the shortfall. This supply issue particularly affects individuals who do not fall under the state vaccination program but usually rely on private pharmacists to receive their immunizations, including students and various other citizens seeking consultation with their personal physicians. The Ministry of Health has already announced its own vaccination plan, prioritizing citizens over 60 and vulnerable groups, and stakeholders are now awaiting further guidance from the government on whether additional supplies can be redirected to the private sector.