Almost 2 million swine flu jabs went unused

ALMOST two million swine flu vaccines bought by the Health Service Executive during the pandemic scare were never used.

It has also emerged that scientists behind World Health Organisation advice on stockpiling of pandemic flu drugs had financial ties with companies which stood to profit.

As the swine flu scare intensified, the HSE purchased three million vaccines at a cost of €12.8 million. An additional €26.6m was spent on GP fees; surgical equipment, including syringes and wipes; a national media information campaign; and expenses incurred due to increased hospital admissions.