AN EXPERT in health and supply chains at the University of Bradford has explained why patients may be struggling to buy basic over-the-counter cold and flu remedies.

Throat lozenges and cough mixtures have been scarce, while pharmacies have seen significant Calpol shortages.

Professor Liz Breen said that a combination of factors is to blame.

“It’s down to three things. Firstly, the 'tripledemic' – which reflects higher than expected cases of Covid, flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) – plus an increasing demand for these medicines, along with an already challenged supply chain.

“Medicine shortages have been common in previous years due to supply chain issues stemming from global events, such as the pandemic or war in Ukraine.

“But these aren’t the same reasons for shortages of non-prescription products.”

Figures show one in 40 people currently have Covid in England, while hospital admissions for flu soared over Christmas.

Professor Breen added: “There have also been outbreaks of Strep A and seasonal illnesses, and worries about shortages can then lead to stockpiling and panic buying, which worsens the situation.

“It’s a simple case of demand outweighing supply. There is no evidence that it’s down to inadequate Government planning.” 

Another reason could be that, during the pandemic, mask-wearing and increased awareness of hand hygiene protected us against common germs and viruses. 

Professor Breen added: “This meant cold and flu remedies were less in demand and so, if pharmacies and supermarkets based their forecasts on last winter, it’s likely they may have ordered lower levels of stock for this winter, not knowing a surge of seasonal illnesses would occur.”

Dr Zoe Edwards, Research Fellow in Medicine Optimisation at the University of Bradford, looked at possible solutions.

“We want people to self-manage their symptoms, but if over-the-counter medications are unavailable, they are more likely to go to their GP at a time when the NHS is already over-burdened and may incur longer waits,” she said.

“If you can't get hold of your usual cold and flu remedies, ask your pharmacist for advice about alternatives.

“People can be very loyal to brands. Parents in particular depend on Calpol because they trust the brand. But there are often non-branded alternatives which contain the same ingredients. 

“For example, paracetamol and vitamin C are often the main ingredients in cold and flu remedies. 

“You should also make sure you get your Covid and flu vaccines. Ideally, you should have the flu jab in autumn or early winter before flu season kicks in.”