A SHORTAGE of flu vaccine in the region has prompted calls for action after fears vulnerable pensioners could be affected.

Age Concern is calling on the Government to step in after doctors' surgeries across the North-East and North Yorkshire reported supply problems.

A spokesman for the charity said: "Flu can be a killer and it is vital that elderly people have access to their free jab.

"We would urge the Department of Health to sort out the delays in the North-East and North Yorkshire as a matter of urgency so the most vulnerable people don't suffer."

Some surgeries have been forced to cancel vaccination clinics after a batch of vaccine from one supplier failed sterility tests.

Ken Latta, head of medicines management at Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust, said many of its surgeries had been affected.

"The delay is due to additional testing being required to ensure the final products met the high pharmaceutical standards that are expected," said Mr Latta.

"We anticipate receiving further stocks from the manufacturer next week."

A spokesman for Middlesbrough PCT said: "We understand the Department of Health is to release some guidance about potential supply problems with one of the vaccine suppliers.

"This may cause delays for some GP surgeries."

Chief executive of Darlington Primary Care Trust Colin Morris said two of the town's 11 surgeries had experienced some supply difficulties, but these had now been overcome.

"There is still plenty of time for anyone who is eligible to receive their flu vaccination," he said.

The flu jab is recommended for pensioners and anyone with long-term conditions such as heart, lung and kidney disease.

A spokesman for the Department of Health said the problem should be resolved by the end of the month.