Saskatchewan pharmacies are running low on children's liquid antibiotics, which are commonly used to cure infections..Pharmacists are calling it a “critical tier three shortage” and have asked the ministry of Health for help.. Pharmacy .The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health spokesperson Dale Hunter said the antibiotics shortage is an issue for provinces across Canada..“As is the case across the country, Saskatchewan is experiencing supply challenges in a number of areas, including some medications,” said Hunter..“The antibiotic amoxicillin is currently in reduced supply, not just in Canada, but globally.”.Hunter said the shortage is “largely due to increased demand during the flu season” and they are helping pharmacists find “alternative options” to liquid antibiotics..There are still antibiotic tablets and capsules available and pharmacists are “coaching people” to use the solid versions. However, some adults and children have trouble swallowing pills and need liquid options..The Saskatchewan government asked the public to get the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccinations to ease pressure from the hospital systems..“The recent increase in influenza and respiratory illness activity it is imperative that all residents get up-to-date on their vaccinations and get their flu shot,” said the Saskatchewan government statement. .“All preventative measures that prevent COVID-19 transmission will also mitigate the transmission of other respiratory illnesses, including influenza.”.The three main respiratory viruses putting pressure on the hospital are COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. All of which are not treated with antibiotics..READ MORE COVID-19 cases dropping across Sask, RSV cases rising in children.Health Canada recently found more ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) in Australia and the U.S. for importing into Canada. However, both are still in short supply in Saskatchewan..“Health Canada recently approved the importation of ibuprofen and acetaminophen from the U.S. and Australia for use in hospitals, as well as additional foreign authorized children’s acetaminophen for sale at retail and community pharmacies,” said the Health Canada statement..Health Canada is exploring the same option to import more liquid antibiotics..Parents can call 811 and speak with a nurse to help determine whether the symptoms require a visit to a doctor or emergency room.
