THE International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has launched a new campaign to support pharmacists in increasing vaccination uptake.
The 'Let's talk about vaccines!' initiative aims to heighten awareness and understanding of the benefits of vaccination among vulnerable groups through community pharmacies.
FIP Lead for Practice Development and Transformation, Goncalo Sousa Pinto, said pharmacists can play an important and active role in promoting vaccination and building vaccine confidence.
"Through this initiative, FIP aims to support its member organisations and individual pharmacists in integrating vaccination education into their daily practice," he said.
The Federation has published a collection of free evidence-based materials for pharmacies and the public, which provide reliable, accurate and understandable information on specific vaccines, including influenza and pertussis.
The resources also highlight the benefits of vaccinations for groups at higher risk from vaccine-preventable diseases, such as older adults, pregnant women, and people living with chronic diseases including diabetes and chronic respiratory conditions.
"FIP will be producing different translations of these materials and invites its member organisations to customise the campaign assets not only by translating them but also by including their logo.
"Pharmacists are also encouraged to adapt their advice to locally applicable vaccination schedules and recommendations," he added.
The campaign assets include posters and a video that can be displayed in pharmacies, short guides with key messages pharmacists can give to patients, a series of FIP CPD Bites (short educational resources for pharmacists, including videos), and flyers for different patient groups.
The 'Let's talk about vaccines!' resources are available here. JM
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