Effectiveness of Influenza Vaccination Services by Trained Community Pharmacists in Retail Pharmacies

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Health with regard to the recent introduction of influenza vaccination services by trained community pharmacists in retail pharmacies (a) how does the Ministry plan to assess its effectiveness; and (b) whether there are plans to expand this service to more locations based on initial outcomes.

Influenza vaccination services in retail pharmacies were introduced as part of a sandbox on 28 October 2024. We will conduct a review of its effectiveness and safety after six months of data, taking into consideration information from site audits, user feedback, the management of any vaccine adverse reactions or reportable events and the overall uptake.

A decision on whether it will be extended will be taken later in the year.