An overview of current pharmacy impact on immunisation

The role of pharmacists in immunisation and vaccination varies across the world; in some countries pharmacists are primarily involved in ensuring the safe supply and dispensing of vaccines, as well as advocating for immunisation, while in other countries they are empowered to play a more active role, as they are legally authorised organise vaccinations activities and campaigns.

It is estimated that ten million lives per year could be saved by increasing access to medicines and vaccinations. Community pharmacists are therefore in a strong position to provide a major contribution to public health due to their accessibility, distribution and available medicines expertise. Pharmacists are also highly trusted healthcare professionals and can therefore significantly improve communication channels and provide public reassurance on product quality.

We conducted a survey, disseminated to 137 FIP member organisations, to gather a better understanding of the current role of pharmacists in immunisation across the world and the impact of these activities. We also provide here a closer look at the immunisation activities undertaken in eleven different countriesand territories presented as case studies.