95 Million Flu Shots Shipping in the U.S.

Every flu season is different, and each influenza virus can affect people differently, says the World Health Organization (WHO). For the forthcoming 2023-2024 flu season in the United States, numerous studies show that vaccination reduces the odds of hospital admissions.

Since the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu shot for most people, access to approved influenza vaccines is essential.

As of July 17, 2023, media statements indicated over 95 million flu shots will be available in the U.S. this season. 

CSL Seqirus today announced it had begun shipping over 55 million doses of its portfolio of cell-based, adjuvanted, and egg-based influenza vaccines across the U.S.

CSL Seqirus is the only manufacturer to offer differentiated influenza vaccine options (FLUCELVAX®,  FLUAD®,  AFLURIA®) approved for use in individuals six months and older.

Previously, GSK plc stated that it expects to distribute over 40 million doses of its influenza vaccine to the U.S. market.

In aggregate, flu shot availability in the U.S. is expected to exceed last season when about 173 million vaccines were distributed.

Dr. Gregg Sylvester, Chief Health Officer, CSL Seqirus, said in a press release on July 17, 2023, "This year in the Southern Hemisphere, we're already seeing high levels of influenza activity, especially in children, which has historically been a strong predictor of what's to come in the Northern Hemisphere."

"As we commence shipment to healthcare providers across the U.S., it's critical that we raise immunization rates this season to help protect as many people as possible from influenza and its potentially life-threatening complications."

These flu shots are needed, as influenza-related fatalities from the 2022-2023 flu season are still being counted.

The National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Surveillance data reported five additional death certificates reported flu-related fatalities.

Furthermore, the U.S. CDC's Influenza-Associated Pediatric Mortality total has reached 162 children as of Week #27, ending July 8, 2023.

In the U.S., flu shots are generally offered at health clinics and community pharmacies throughout the influenza season.