The COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented level of demand for influenza vaccines in 2020, with more than 17.6 million doses being available in Australia.1 Community pharmacy continues to be an integral part of Australia's influenza vaccination strategy.
New advances in influenza vaccination have resulted in a broad range of vaccines that are suitable for different population groups. It is important that pharmacists are able to provide evidence-based information about the different vaccines and address any patient concerns. 2021 is the first year a cell-based influenza vaccine will be available, in addition to the usual egg-grown vaccines.2 The key benefit of cell-based vaccines is that the process eliminates the potential for egg-adapted changes. This means that the grown viruses may more closely match circulating virus strains.3
Guild Learning and Development has partnered with Seqirus (A CSL Company) in the development of a new online course titled 'Influenza vaccine: now and future advances.' The course focuses on increasing pharmacist confidence in both recommending and providing advice on the influenza vaccine, including the different types of vaccines and why they are recommended for different populations.
To enrol in this course please visit GuildEd.
