General News
5 August, 2022
Over 1.65 million COVID-19 vaccines
THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland Branch President Chris Owen, announced on Tuesday that over 1.65 million COVID-19 vaccinations had been administered to Queensland patients by community pharmacies since June 7, 2021.
Mr Owen said that community demand for accessing vaccinations through community pharmacies had remained steady throughout the pandemic.
“I’m hearing from community pharmacists across the state that demand for vaccinations is still very high,” he said.
“The good news is that stock levels are level with demand, so it’s pretty easy to access COVID-19 vaccines through community pharmacy.
“I would encourage anyone who hasn’t had their third or fourth boosters to visithttps://bit.ly/3zVeZUd or come into their community pharmacy to get vaccinated.” Mr Owen said vaccinations are still the key to controlling future COVID-19 outbreaks.
“The best way we can protect our loved ones and ourselves from contracting COVID-19 is to be up-to-date with our vaccinations, and that means making sure we’re all getting the boosters,” he said.
Mr Owen said those choosing to be vaccinated at community pharmacies could do so with confidence as all vaccinators continued to undergo specific training related to the vaccine they are administering.
“COVID-19 vaccinations delivered in pharmacies are administered by highly-trained and qualified vaccinators who have to attain a current first aid and CPR certificate as well as accreditation in anaphylaxis management,” he said.
Oral antiviral stocks are continuing to increase, and community members looking for antiviral medication can search for availability at their closest community pharmacy by utilizing the website:https://bit.ly/3JqGsQN , added Mr Owen.
“There have been quite a few reports that there’s a lack of antiviral medication, especially in regional areas,” he said.
“While demand was outpacing supply a week ago, we’re seeing more stock in community pharmacies now.
“We encourage anyone requiring oral antiviral medication to avoid going to the pharmacy yourself to pick up the medication and instead ask a friend or family member to help.
“Some pharmacies may also be able to offer assistance in getting the medication to you as soon as possible.
To access medications and enquire about vaccinations, visit findapharmacy.com.au/home/oral-treatments or call your local community pharmacy to find out what options are available.
