National Health System: Time for vaccines and tests – flu alert, high-risk groups identified

Greeks are putting their trust in pharmacists for flu vaccinations, and with the upcoming COVID vaccinations and distribution of colorectal cancer tests, pharmacists and their role in primary healthcare are being highlighted.

With flu protection underway across Greece and Europe in anticipation of the seasonal flu virus, data shows that the vast majority of vulnerable and elderly citizens are visiting pharmacies for vaccination. In the past four weeks alone, with the new vaccines available, 532,000 flu vaccinations have taken place, of which 382,000 were administered without a medical prescription, as recent legislation allows this for all flu vaccination periods.

Around 241,000 citizens received a doctor’s prescription for the flu vaccine, although it is no longer required for vaccination. So far, pharmacies have administered 150,000 of these prescribed vaccines, with only 850 recorded as administered by doctors.

The flu vaccine aims to reduce virus transmission and prevent serious complications following infection, stresses the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in its flu awareness campaign.

Elderly individuals, pregnant women, infants, and those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at significantly higher risk of flu complications compared to the general population. Vaccination is also essential for healthcare workers to protect themselves and the patients they care for.

The scientific and health authorities aim to cover at least 75% of high-risk groups, but in Greece, coverage reaches only about 50%, resulting annually in severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.

In Europe, over 15 countries allow pharmacies to provide adult vaccination services, helping to increase vaccination rates and reduce vaccine hesitancy. This year, Greek pharmacists have been authorized to administer flu vaccines for adults using four approved vaccines and record them in the National Vaccination Registry—a vital development for public health.

Pharmacies are also preparing to administer COVID-19 vaccinations. Pharmaceutical warehouses are registering interest in the program, and pharmacies will select the warehouse from which to receive the vaccines. Pharmacist training has already started. Given the annual need to protect the vulnerable and elderly from COVID-19, the role of pharmacists is considered crucial.

For the colorectal cancer prevention program, pharmacies have distributed 130,000 tests. Three million people are eligible, and 1.4 million messages have been sent out. Pharmacists are also expected to join additional screening programs under the Ministry of Health.

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