Austria faces shingles vaccine shortages amid high demand

Austria is experiencing supply challenges for the Herpes Zoster (shingles) vaccine following its inclusion in the national free vaccination program. While demand is high, medical professionals report significant difficulties in securing reliable quantities of the vaccine, particularly for patients requiring a second dose.

In Lower Austria alone, more than 124,000 vaccinations have been administered since the program began. Nationally, the Ministry of Health reports that nearly 900,000 doses have been provided, with approximately 633,250 vaccinations documented in electronic records as of late August.

Despite these figures, the Vienna Medical Chamber and the Medical Chamber of Lower Austria have criticized the lack of transparency and planning security. Physicians report that vaccine availability through the electronic vaccine shop is often inconsistent and released in small amounts without prior notice, making it difficult for medical practices to manage patient care effectively.