ICMR clarifies flu vaccine availability and H1N1 guidance in India

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a clarification regarding seasonal influenza vaccination following misleading media reports. The council stated that recent inaccurate reports were based on a two-month-old clinical guidance note intended for medical practitioners rather than a new advisory.

ICMR confirmed that seasonal influenza vaccines, including the Northern Hemisphere version, are available in India through major pharmacies. While the Northern Hemisphere vaccine is preferred, the council noted that the Southern Hemisphere vaccine is also effective against the currently circulating H1N1 strain and can be used if the preferred version is unavailable.

Vaccination is recommended on a voluntary basis, particularly for high-risk groups including the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying comorbidities. The council emphasized that its recommendations align with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance and current scientific evidence.