Georgia Experiencing shortage of flu, strep medicine as cases rise

The FINANCIAL — Country of Georgia is left with no medicines for children, as cases of seasonal flu and COVID-19 rise.
Local residents told The FINANCIAL that throat lozenges and cold medications are hard to find even at the leading pharmacy networks, including PSP, GPC and AVERSI. Russia’s war in Ukraine can be one of the reasons.

“Our company is importing a large share of medicines from Ukraine. The war affected our supply system”, a pharmacist at PSP store told The FINANCIAL.
As the result, the most popular flu syrups, including Nurofen, Eferalgan, Panadol disappeared from shelves.

There are three leading players in the Georgian pharmacy market: PSP, Aversi, and GPC / Pharmadepot. In addition, the Georgian market is also represented by small players.

All three largest pharmacy chains are part of healthcare holding companies. Including, the GPC (GPHA Ltd) chain is part of the Georgian Healthcare Group (GHG), which also includes Evex hospitals. GHG, in turn, is owned by Georgian Capital. For its part, “Georgian Capital” is traded on the London Stock Exchange.

Aversi Pharma is a member of the Aversi Group, which also includes clinics. Businessmen Paata and Nikoloz Kurtanidze own 67% and 33% shares of the company.

PSP Pharma is a member of the PSP Group, which combines New Hospitals and PSP Insurance. Businessman Kakha Okriashvili owns 95% of the company.

According to the financial report, businessman Davit Kokhreidze is 100%-shareholder of IMPEX Pharmacy.

Use the following 10 tips to fight the flu this year:

• wash your hands frequently, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, being with ill people and especially before you eat;
• avoid sharing objects;
• avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes;
• get enough sleep and avoid getting “run down”;
• reduce stress;
• use tissues for coughs and sneezes and dispose of them immediately
  and appropriately;
• eat right and get regular exercise;
• avoid crowds and keep your distance from people whom you know are ill;
• if you are sick, avoid contact with the frail, very young and elderly;
• if you are sick, stay home from work or school.