THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia has welcomed yesterday's announcement by Federal Health Minister Mark Butler to offer pregnant women free access to the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine, Abrysvo.
"Vaccines are vital for patient safety, and Abrysvo is critical in preventing RSV-related hospitalisations in babies," National President of the Guild, Trent Twomey, said.
Previously costing patients around $300, the vaccine will now be free to patients through the National Immunisation Program Vaccination in Pharmacy at community pharmacies.
Twomey highlighted that pharmacies already provide many vaccines to expectant mothers at no cost.
"Open early and late, community pharmacy is the most convenient and affordable way to get vaccinated," Twomey said.
"Pharmacists offer RSV, whooping cough, influenza and shingles vaccines, as well as vaccines needed for overseas travel," he added.
"The Pharmacy Guild looks forward to continuing to work with the government to ensure primary healthcare services, such as vaccine administration, are as accessible as possible for all Australians," Twomey commented.
To book a vaccination, go to findapharmacy.com.au
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