New Delhi | The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Thursday said appropriate seasonal influenza vaccines, including the Northern Hemisphere vaccine, are available in India through leading pharmacies and may be taken voluntarily, particularly by people belonging to vulnerable groups.

This comes amid reports claiming that flu shots were not available in the country.

The ICMR said it has taken note of a few media reports carrying "misleading" information regarding its recommendations on seasonal influenza vaccination.

The reports appear to be based on an ICMR note for medical practitioners on influenza issued around two months ago. The note was intended to provide clinical guidance to medical practitioners and does not represent any new or recent advisory issued by the council, the health research body said.

The ICMR has said the Northern Hemisphere vaccine is preferable.

However, if unavailable, the Southern Hemisphere vaccine can be taken as both are effective against the current circulating strain of H1N1, it clarified.

"Regarding the claim that flu shots are not available, we want to clarify that appropriate seasonal influenza vaccines (including Northern Hemisphere vaccine) are available in India through leading pharmacies and may be taken voluntarily, particularly by individuals belonging to vulnerable groups," it said.

Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended particularly for individuals at higher risk of severe illness, including elderly persons, pregnant women, persons with underlying comorbidities and immunocompromised individuals.

The ICMR advised media organisations to report its scientific guidance accurately and in the appropriate context.

ICMR recommendations on seasonal influenza vaccination are based on applicable World Health Organisation guidance and prevailing scientific evidence.