Authorities in Lahore have seized a large stock of suspected counterfeit flu vaccines amid a nationwide shortage of genuine doses, an official said. According to the official, drug inspectors in Lahore carried out a raid, during which two suspects were apprehended on the spot.
A substantial stock of suspected counterfeit vaccine was seized from the suspects, the official said, without disclosing the exact location, quantity, or identities of the accused. The official stated that the investigation is ongoing and a First Information Report (FIR) will be registered against the accused under the Drugs Act, 1976.
The raid comes as genuine flu vaccines are in short supply across the country, with products from leading multinational and Chinese manufacturers unavailable in the market, allowing spurious vaccines to fill the gap. An official from the office of the Chief Drug Controller Punjab said the shortage extends to vaccines from every major supplier, adding that vaccines manufactured by two multinational companies might arrive only in limited quantities toward the end of November or in December.
He noted that Chinese vaccines, which would normally help fill the gap, were also unavailable after their limited stocks were exhausted. Seasonal influenza vaccines are usually administered ahead of the winter months, when flu cases rise.
They are generally recommended for high-risk groups, including the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses. A shortage of genuine vaccines can push those who need protection toward unverified sources, a situation drug authorities are trying to prevent.
The official urged the public to purchase flu vaccines only from licensed pharmacies. He advised buyers to confirm that the cold chain has been maintained, to check the batch number, and to verify the manufacturer's seal on the product.
The development comes days after Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal rejected reports of a flu vaccine shortage in Pakistan, claiming that vaccines remain available in the market despite the unavailability of specific multinational brands. He had stated, "The flu vaccine is present in the market, and there are several brands available." According to Kamal, one brand had refused to continue selling its vaccine at the existing price and sought an increase, which he acknowledged "may well be justified."
He said the relevant committee had completed its deliberations and submitted its proposal to the cabinet, where final approval is pending. Health experts continue to warn that the use of counterfeit medical products poses severe health risks, including allergic reactions or the lack of immunity against the influenza virus.
Authorities have promised to intensify surveillance of pharmacies to curb the distribution of illicit drugs.