24 Jan 2012

Flu shots at more pharmacies this year

9:01 am on 24 January 2012

More pharmacies are expected to do some flu vaccinations this year.

The Ministry of Health has decided to let approved chemists administer the vaccine to those not eligible to have them subsidised, but doctors are wary of the move.

The ministry expects up to 50 pharmacists in the main centres will do the work, from March.

Pharmacists are keen to expand their role, but the Medical Association says while it accepts the proposal, it does not want pharmacies administering subsidised vaccinations as well.

GPs and practice nurses provide most vaccinations, particularly to people eligible for subsidised inoculations.

But last year 22 pharmacies administered about 400 unsubsidised vaccinations.