The Department of Health can confirm that despite the adverse weather conditions preventing numerous sailings over the past few weeks, there has been no significant impact on the Island’s supply of prescription drugs. Shortages have occurred in some pharmacies, but where necessary, stocks have been shared. In some cases, to preserve stocks, those on repeat prescriptions with ample supplies at home are collecting their top-up medications at a later date. To the Department’s knowledge, no one on the Island has been unable to obtain any urgent medication from the Island’s 24 pharmacies. Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK said: “The Island’s pharmacists are in regular contact with the Department, and our Pharmaceutical Adviser is monitoring the situation closely and liaising with pharmacists to address any issues on a case by case basis. The overnight sailing that came in this morning contained a large shipment of various medications, and I’d like to reassure the public that there’s certainly no cause for alarm. Contingency plans are in place should the need arise, with offers of assistance from both Manx2 and Flybe to transport medications by air if required. There is no need for the public to stockpile medications.” Those with any concerns should speak to their Pharmacist in the first instance. - ENDS -