WIMMERA residents will have more access to flu shots this year because of new regulations allowing trained pharmacists to administer the vaccine.
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In May 2016 regulations authorised pharmacists to administer certain vaccines to adults.
Horsham Chemmart Pharmacy owner Jossy Dan said the new regulations would be convenient for residents.
“In the past, people wanting flu vaccinations had to either visit their doctor or arrange for a registered nurse with the right qualifications,” Mr Dan said.
“Pharmacies would arrange an occasional day to have a nurse on site for vaccinations but people had to make themselves available on that specific day.
“But now people can arrange with their pharmacist to get the vaccination on the most suitable day for them.
“It’s a far better system and hopefully more people will take advantage of it and we will have a healthier community.”
Mr Dan said most Wimmera pharmacists would have completed the vaccination training program and be qualified to administer the flu shot.
He said everyone should safeguard against the flu by getting vaccinated but certain groups were more vulnerable.
“Most people recover from the flu reasonably well but many people can be seriously affected by the flu and more serious cases can sometimes result in death,” he said.
“Those at the higher risk level include pregnant women, older people and people with particular health conditions.”