Germany’s pharmacies race to secure flu vaccines amid 550 drug shortages in 2026
The start of 2026 brings critical deadlines for medical suppliers and pharmacies across Germany. With nearly 550 medications listed as unavailable by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), careful planning is now essential. January marks the time to finalise seasonal priorities, manage stock, and prepare for flu vaccine orders in the coming months.
Medical practices must place flu vaccine orders for the 2026/27 season between mid-February and March. Order forms will be available by the end of January, though the specific companies or organisations placing these orders remain undisclosed. Coordination with field sales teams is vital, as rationing may occur due to raw material shortages or logistical delays.
Back offices face a busy period, reviewing post-stockpiling levels, adjusting prices, and renewing annual agreements. Updated pricing terms and return policies must be compiled for quick reference, especially as stock market fluctuations may affect gold prices. Any remaining stock at old prices needs identification, or selling prices must be recalculated promptly. Many supply contracts finalised in December require first-quarter deliveries, so shipment confirmations and warehouse capacities must be verified. Proactive inventory planning helps secure supply chains and soften the impact of upcoming price hikes. The turn of the year demands precision in tracking deadlines, managing stock, and handling expiring terms.
The coming weeks will determine how smoothly medical suppliers and pharmacies navigate shortages and price changes. Flu vaccine orders, inventory checks, and contract reviews must align to avoid disruptions. With nearly 550 medications already scarce, careful coordination will be key to maintaining supply stability in 2026.
