Germany races to secure flu vaccines for 2026 amid drug shortages
Preparations for the 2026 flu season are already underway across Germany. Medical practices, pharmacies, and emergency bag organisations have begun placing vaccine orders with major stock market suppliers. The process involves tight deadlines, updated pricing, and careful stock management to avoid shortages.
Meanwhile, nearly 550 medications remain unavailable at the start of the year, according to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).
Planning for the flu season starts as early as mid-February or March, though order forms must be finalised by late January. Suppliers like Seqirus, Sanofi, GSK, AstraZeneca, and Viatris will provide vaccines such as Fluad, Flucelvax, Efluelda, and Influsplit. Back offices are now reviewing supply contracts signed in December, with deliveries expected in the first quarter.
The turn of the year brings extra challenges. Teams must check remaining stock at old prices or adjust selling prices ahead of planned increases. They also need to confirm shipment schedules and assess warehouse capacity to handle incoming supplies. Updated pricing terms and return policies from manufacturers must be compiled to avoid confusion later. Close coordination with field sales teams is essential. If rationing occurs, priority allocations must be secured quickly. The goal is to prevent delays in vaccine distribution when demand peaks.
With nearly 550 drugs already in short supply, careful planning for flu vaccines is more critical than ever. Back offices must balance deadlines, pricing updates, and stock checks to ensure smooth delivery. The success of the 2026 flu season depends on precise coordination between stock market suppliers, sales teams, and logistics partners.
