Pharmacists and Doctors Debate 'Long Night of Vaccinations' as Flu Season Starts Early
Pharmacists and doctors are discussing ways to boost vaccination rates, as the flu season begins earlier than usual. The 'Long Night of Vaccinations' event, organized by pharmacies like Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS, aims to make vaccinations more accessible, but not all healthcare professionals agree on the approach.
Pharmacist representative Thomas Preis has called for closer collaboration between medical and pharmaceutical professions to tackle immunization gaps. Currently, only 38% of people over 60 received flu vaccinations in the 2023/2024 season. Health Minister Warken plans to expand pharmacy vaccinations beyond flu and Covid, but some doctors remain skeptical.
The 'Long Night of Vaccinations' action, involving nearly 200 pharmacies in North Rhine-Westphalia, offers evening vaccinations against flu and Covid. The Federal Association of Supply Pharmacists has compiled an online list of the 370 participating partners. However, the event's success has been questioned by Dirk Spelmeyer and Anke Richter-Scheer from the Westphalia-Lippe Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians.
General practitioner Prosper Rodewyk warns that the infection wave is just beginning, with influenza cases already appearing earlier than usual. The Standing Vaccination Commission recommends vaccinations for those over 60, with underlying diseases, and medical personnel.
The 'Long Night of Vaccinations' event seeks to improve vaccination rates, but its effectiveness remains debated. As the flu season starts early, healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of vaccinations for at-risk groups. The role of pharmacies like Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, and local 'pharmacy near me' options in vaccinations continues to be a topic of discussion.
