TASMANIAN Health Minister, Sarah Courtney (pictured), has announced the rollout of pharmacy measles vaccinations, as part of a catch-up program for eligible Tasmanians.
Initially available through GPs from next week, pharmacists will also be able to administer the immunisations once they complete an approved training program.
Courtney said people born during or after 1966 who have not received two measles vaccinations, or had the measles infection, are eligible for the free jab.
Infants aged six to 12 months who are travelling overseas to places where measles is circulating are also eligible for the free vaccinations.
"Having pharmacists administer vaccinations will help to improve access for Tasmanians, particularly in regional areas," Courtney said.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomed the move, saying it had "long championed a consistent approach in all states and territories for pharmacists to administer vaccines".
According to PSA Tasmanian Branch President, Ella Van Tienen, the range of vaccinations now available through pharmacist immunisers in the state included dTpa and state-funded MMR for people aged 16 years and older - along with influenza vaccines for individuals aged 10 and up.
"These vaccines targeting measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus are vital in saving lives and protecting the community from the spread of these potentially life-threatening diseases," she said.
The PSA has worked with the Tasmanian Government to update its pharmacist training course to reflect the expanded scope.
"Trained pharmacists will start offering these additional vaccination services over the coming weeks," Van Tienen said.
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