Pakistan, Nov. 6 -- The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has promised that Sinovac's influenza vaccine will reach the market by November 15, following reports of a shortage that has left Islamabad's residents searching desperately for protection against seasonal flu. Meanwhile, other established brands are reportedly unlikely to reach consumers this season. Nearly six years after the pandemic laid bare the weaknesses of Pakistan's healthcare system, the capital is confronting another entirely foreseeable shortage. One wonders how many warnings it takes before preparedness becomes more than a talking point.

The country has been here before. In November 2020, medical professionals raised the alarm over the unavailability of influenza ...