Immunization Practices During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Pharmacists’ ability to provide services has been hindered throughout the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In a Pharmacy Times’ webcast on immunization practices during the pandemic, thought leaders will discuss considerations and best practices regarding the administration of vaccinations.

The thought leaders in the discussion are Jeff Goad, PharmD, FAphA, FCPhA, FCSHP, of Chapman University School of Pharmacy; Brian Hille, RPh of Albertsons Companies; Lauren Simko, PharmD, of Pharmacy Development Services; and Suzanne Soliman, PharmD, of Pharmacists Moms™ Group.

The discussion will include the speakers’ concerns regarding the decline of regular vaccinations in light of the upcoming flu season, current tactics to ensure that patients continue to receive regular vaccinations, methods of ensuring the safety and wellness of pharmacy staff during immunizations, and best practices to promote social distancing and safety among patients.

During the discussion, Soliman explains that there are some common best practices that pharmacists have observed and discussed in her Pharmacists Moms™ Group on social media.

“Overall, some of the best practices that came up were that patients should fill everything out online, over email and fax, or pre-fill it in their car,” Soliman said. “A lot of pharmacies are not accepting walk-ins and are setting up a space around the vaccine room so that people can socially distance from each other.”

Additionally, the speakers will discuss the importance of updating and checking immunization registries when administering vaccines during the pandemic, staying current with the information that is coming out of a pharmacy’s state board of pharmacy and state board of health, observing appropriate timing when administering vaccines this fall and spring, and estimates regarding the release of a successful COVID-19 vaccine.