Nationwide shortage of anti-viral drug as flu epidemic spreads across Australia
The flu epidemic sweeping the country has lead to a nationwide shortage of the anti-viral prescription drug Tamiflu.
More than 105,000 cases have been reported across Australia, making this year's flu outbreak the biggest in 15 years.
The flu epidemic has hit the east coast the hardest, with official figures confirming that August was the worst month on record for diganosed flu cases in New South Wales.
With Queensland also hit hard, Tamiflu is in short supply.
Tamiflu is often prescribed at the onset of flu-like symptoms to alleviate and reduce their duration.
The 30 milligram and 45 milligram capsules and the suspension (liquid or powder) form of the drug are all in shortage.
A Federal Department of Health spokesperson said a 75 milligram capsule was being released with instructions on how to prepare a weaker dose.
The flu is spreading throughout many aged care facilities.
Eight elderly people died during a flu outbreak in a Victorian nursing home, while 100 people have fallen ill at Wangaratta's St John's Retirement Village in recent weeks.
The Australian Government has Tamiflu stock as part of its National Medical Stockpile and is reported to have released some of its stock to deal with the emergency.
GPs are encouraging people to get vaccinated, adding that it is not too late in the year to protect against influenza.
