July 2022 Influenza Supplement

Pharmacies and pharmacists are increasingly utilized for point-of-care (POC) services, including testing for infections that can be diagnosed via rapid testing.

Pharmacists are in an excellent position to educate and counsel patients on current recommendations.

Influenza viruses typically circulate in the Northern Hemisphere during the winter and spring, but they occasionally can circulate more during the summer months, as did the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strain.

A pharmacist’s role in the ambulatory care setting has traditionally included a review of medications for potential drug-drug interactions and adverse events, medication reconciliation, and the provision of counseling services.

Rates of influenza and associated hospitalizations demand late-season vigilance.