They knew in 2002 what the problems were with the vaccine supply.This is from the HHR web site.
http://www.hhs.gov/nvpo/bulletins/nvac-vsr.htm#probvac"Solutions that may be implemented in the immediate future include the following:
*Increase funds for vaccine stockpiles to include all routinely administered vaccines in sufficient quantity to be used for amelioration of supply problems or surge demands.
*Increase support for the Center for Biologics, Evaluation and Research to continue to enhance its scientific and clinical base and the ability of this FDA program to review the scientific evidence that supports the safety, efficacy and quality of vaccines.
*Identify for all stakeholders that the NVPO and NVAC provide a mechanism for a unified Federal prioritization of vaccine development and distribution as specified in the 1986 enabling legislation.
*Maintain and strengthen the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. *Coverage of vaccines by the VICP should define "vaccine" as including the active ingredient as well as preservatives, additives and other excipients.
*Require vaccine manufacturers to provide advance notification to the Department of Health and Human Services regarding intent to withdraw from the market.
*Increase the availability of accurate information about vaccine supply for opinion leaders and consumers. Appropriate information about vaccine supply can be communicated by a website containing current information about the availability of vaccines.
*Enhance the valuation of vaccines by initiating a national campaign to emphasize the safety and efficacy and great benefit of recommended vaccines for the public good.
Solutions that are more complex and will require more study include the following:
*Convene a multi-disciplinary group to evaluate the nature of appropriate incentives for manufacturers to sustain the supply of existing vaccines and stimulate development of new vaccines.
*Streamline and strengthen the regulatory processes and the activities of the FDA, ncluding a) support the work of international harmonization for mutual recognition of lot releases of various vaccines; and b) review the implementation of current Good *Manufacturing Practices to assure that science-based decisions regarding vaccine safety and efficacy are made.
The Committee at its June 4-5, 2002 meeting endorsed in principle the assessments and recommendations in this report and on October 8, 2002 approved this report to be forwarded to the Assistant Secretary of Health who also is Director of the National Vaccine Program. In accordance with the further recommendations of the Committee, the Work Group will continue to consider the issues in strengthening vaccine supply and develop a prioritized list of specific implementable recommendations to be considered by the Committee and forwarded to the Assistant Secretary."