THOUSANDS of patients in will have to wait for flu jabs because of a shortage of the vaccine.

GP surgeries and health centres have been told they will not get enough supplies for up to four weeks to vaccinate those who need protection against the virus.

The shortage has been caused by the possible contamination of a large batch of vaccine which was destined for those most at risk - the young, elderly and those with breathing problems.

Robert Frew medical centre, Salcott Crescent, Wickford, has had to cancel the three weekly sessions for the flu vaccinations because the batch from their usual vaccine supplier has a possible contamination.

Though they went to another supplier and were able to vaccinate 1,000 patients, 1,500 more will have to go without the jab until the week beginning November 1.