FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (WCBS 880) — Sen. Chuck Schumer called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Monday to address a shingles vaccine shortage on Long Island, saying it’s the "perfect example" as to why the government shutdown should end.
High-demand for the vaccine Shingrix has resulted in a nationwide shortage of the drug.
Given in two doses, Shingrix is extremely effective against the virus in adults 50 years and older.
The problem on Long Island is that nearly every pharmacy has completely run out of its supply.
As most of the FDA staff is out of work due to the government shutdown, Schumer believes an emergency order needs to be put in place.
“I'm calling on the FDA to declare an emergency, hire new workers and work with the one company that makes the shingles vaccine to get the vaccine here to Long Island and to New York City right away,” Schumer said.
The Democrat notes that some people have already received the first dose of the vaccine but are now unable to complete their treatment.