Written question WQ86977
- Asked by
- Cefin CampbellPlaid
- To be answered by
- Minister for Health and Social Services
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 7 days
Question
What discussions has the Welsh Government had with the pharmaceutical sector regarding a supposed shortage in antibiotics across Mid and West Wales?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Health and Social Services
The increased incidence of Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infections across the UK has led to significant increases in demand for some antibiotics.
Whilst there are no problems with the manufacture of antibiotics, the increased and earlier than usual seasonal demand for antibiotics for GAS infections has led to a temporary supply disruption and some people have experienced difficulty in obtaining some antibiotics.
We are working closely with UK Government, manufacturers, wholesalers and representatives of community pharmacies in Wales, to expedite the movement of stock to wholesalers to resolve the disruption. Once at wholesalers, stock will be available to be supplied to community pharmacies.
We have also made arrangements to ensure out of hours services, emergency departments and designated pharmacies have adequate supplies of treatment options for GAS infection until the disruption is resolved.
Anyone who is having difficulty obtaining treatment should contact their doctor or pharmacist to discuss what alternatives might be available.