The Power of Pharmacists in Vaccination

A recent study published in *Human Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics* reveals a surprising factor affecting patients' willingness to get vaccinated: the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of pharmacists. This research particularly focused on essential vaccinations like influenza and pneumococcal vaccines.

Why Vaccination Matters for All Ages

Pneumococcal disease isn't just a risk for the vulnerable; it poses serious threats to children and older adults, as highlighted by the CDC. Vaccination against pneumococcal infections is vital to prevent severe illnesses. The health authority recommends that all children under five, as well as at-risk children aged 5 to 18, get vaccinated. Additionally, adults between 19 and 49 years with increased risk, as well as those aged 50 and older, should also consider the vaccine.

When it comes to influenza, the CDC underscores that the flu can lead to hospitalization and even death, emphasizing that everyone over six months should be vaccinated, especially those vulnerable to serious complications.

Understanding Pharmacists' Knowledge Gaps

The study aimed to thoroughly assess pharmacists' understanding of vaccination. According to the authors, research in this area has been limited, making their analysis a significant contribution. On February 17, 2024, investigators sifted through various databases, examining 24 studies that covered pharmacists' knowledge about influenza and pneumococcal vaccines.

Although 15 studies evaluated pharmacists' knowledge through predominantly web-based questionnaires, results indicated that most pharmacists rated their knowledge as average or better, even though their actual understanding often fell short. Key gaps identified included vaccination protocols for pregnant women and vaccine content knowledge.

Pharmacists' Attitudes Towards Vaccination

The study also explored pharmacists' attitudes and beliefs regarding vaccinations. Of the 17 studies examined, over half reported that pharmacists actively recommended influenza vaccinations to their patients, with rates ranging from 59.5% to 83.9%. In contrast, only 45.3% to 66.5% recommended pneumococcal vaccinations. Alarmingly, only a small percentage of pharmacists—between 7.9% and 44.1%—endorsed vaccination for pregnant women.

A Call for Enhanced Education

The authors of the study emphasized the urgent need for improved vaccination education in pharmacy schools and ongoing training post-graduation. As vaccination rates decline amid rising anti-vaccination sentiment worldwide, it is more crucial than ever to bolster vaccination outreach efforts.