Health Ministry yet to respond to Chickenpox vaccine shortage

The continued silence from the Health Ministry has sparked frustration among healthcare professionals and the general public

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

Despite an acute shortage of the Chickenpox (varicella) vaccine in both government and private hospitals, the Ministry of Health has yet to issue an official response or explanation.   

Daily Mirror yesterday (15) reported that the vaccine remains out of stock at multiple private hospitals with officials attributing the situation to a recent surge in demand. 

The vaccine, which is priced between Rs. 7,500 and Rs. 9,500 in the private sector, is also unavailable in government healthcare institutions, according to health authorities.    However, repeated attempts by the Daily Mirror to obtain a statement from the Director of the Medical Supplies Division (MSD) were unsuccessful.   

The continued silence from the Health Ministry has sparked frustration among healthcare professionals and the general public.  

Meanwhile, hospital officials revealed that a significant number of people had received the vaccine in recent weeks, possibly contributing to the current shortage.    Nevetheless, with no clear communication or contingency plan from the Ministry, concerns are growing over the availability of essential vaccines during a time of increased need.