Chemists report test shortages amid surge in flu and Covid cases

On Monday (January 8^th), importers revealed that there is a significant shortage of flu and COVID-19 testing supplies across Spain, including the Canary Islands, leaving pharmacies grappling with empty shelves. The scarcity, particularly severe for Influenza A tests, mirrors the situation leading up to Christmas 2021, with the added challenge of face masks also becoming scarce.

The surging demand for tests, driven by a spike in respiratory infections, has placed immense strain on Spain's healthcare system. The national flu incidence has nearly reached 1,000 cases per 100,000 people, pushing health centres to their limits.

A representative from a prominent test importing firm confirmed the current situation, stating, "We are in the same predicament as two years ago, there is an extreme shortage of tests in Spain, and no one wants to bear the cost of importing them from China."

An analysis report by IQVIA revealed a staggering 60% week-over-week increase in sales of flu and antigen tests so far in January at pharmacies. In the last week of December 2023 alone, sales of these tests surpassed 1.6 million units, marking a 530% rise from November 30, 2023, and a 40% increase from December 31st, 2022.

The current crisis is exacerbated by excessive stock from the previous year, which recently expired. Importers explained, "Last year, not many tests were sold, and we were left with a lot of stock that passed their expiry dates.” Additionally, they highlighted the financial risk involved in restocking, especially considering the high cost of air freight required for immediate supplies.

Urgent solutions are needed to strike a balance between addressing immediate healthcare needs and navigating the economic challenges associated with importing essential medical supplies. The situation highlights the critical need for a comprehensive approach to manage the increasing demand for testing amidst a surge in respiratory illnesses.