Lack of vaccine causes Maxim to pull plug on flu shot clinics

COLUMBIA, Md. Citing a lack of availability, Maxim Health Systems, which operates flu shot clinics for a number of retailers, announced that it is canceling all remaining flu shot clinic programs. The move was effective Oct. 22.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused our customers and clients," said Steve Pellito, national director of wellness for Maxim Health Systems. "This season has proven to be one of the most unique and unpredictable seasons of all time."

According to Maxim, the focus around H1N1 vaccine production has caused vaccine makers to shift resources away from production of regular seasonal flu vaccine efforts. At the same time, heightened public awareness has led to unexpectedly high flu shot demand.