Strong vaccine availability in Queensland as community pharmacies drive vaccination
There is an abundant supply of COVID-19 vaccines in Queensland, as the latest figures show strong vaccine availability throughout community pharmacies state-wide.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s Queensland President, Chris Owen, commented that strong vaccine availability in Queensland will further propel the state closer to its vaccination goals as community pharmacies around the country finally get their hands on all Therapeutic Goods Administration-approved COVID-19 vaccines.
“There are approximately 220,000 Moderna vaccines, and 270,000 AstraZeneca vaccines that are available across the state as of today,” said Mr. Owen.
“These figures position pharmacies to continue driving vaccinations across our state.”
Since Queensland community pharmacies were the first to join the COVID-19 vaccination rollout on 7 June 2021, nationwide pharmacies have administered more than 1.7 million doses of Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccinations.
“This has demonstrated the capacity of community pharmacies around the state in delivering world-class vaccination services,” said Mr. Owen. “After all, over 1.7 million Aussies chose their community pharmacy as their preferred vaccination provider,” he added.
Following an announcement made by the Federal Government last week, the Pfizer vaccine will become available in community pharmacies no later than November 8, as the country begins to put its booster vaccination program into motion.
“Whether you’re looking to receive your first, second, or even booster dose, community pharmacies will be able to cater for your preferred vaccine choice,” said Mr. Owen.
The booster program will begin offering booster vaccines to priority population groups, with aged care and disability settings the first to receive their booster doses.
“With greater access to vaccine choice, community pharmacies are ideal locations to get vaccinated.”
“They offer convenient and accessible services that are easy to use and allow you to get vaccinated at a time and location that suits you.”
With over 1,200 pharmacies across the state, your closest community pharmacy could be around the corner.
“On average, 81.5 per cent of Australians live within 2.5km of their closest community pharmacy,” said Mr. Owen.
“Community pharmacies operate in both regional and metropolitan areas and are at the heart and centre of their local communities, providing friendly services to their community and trusted healthcare advice to their customers.”
Mr. Owen highlighted that anyone administering COVID-19 vaccines through the community pharmacy network has undergone the Commonwealth’s mandatory training with the Australian College of Nurses on the specific vaccine being used.
Queenslanders can visit findapharmacy.com.au to find their closest community pharmacy administering COVID-19 vaccinations.