Tasmanian pharmacists now eligible to vaccinate children against COVID-19
Friday 25th March 2022
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA) Tasmanian Branch has welcomed the announcement that pharmacist immunisers in Tasmania are now eligible to protect the state’s children against COVID-19.
Today, Premier Gutwein confirmed changes to allow the provision of COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 through local pharmacies.
PSA Tasmania Branch President, David Peachey, said immunity in Tasmania’s young people is the missing link at the moment and pharmacists can play a key role in protecting this important population.
“This is welcomed news for Tasmania’s pharmacist immunisers, who will now be able to opt-in to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to this paediatric cohort.
“We are delighted that the state will now be brought in line with the rest of the nation, improving access to vaccination for families residing in regional parts of the state.
“It is imperative that all Tasmanian children can access COVID-19 vaccinations from pharmacists, Australia’s most accessible healthcare workforce, in order to keep themselves, their families and the community safe.
“Vaccination is the best way to ensure that these susceptible populations and their families are protected against the virus, and soon, they’ll have the convenient option of protecting themselves through local pharmacies.
“Our pharmacists are trained and experienced in vaccinating younger age groups against other vaccine-preventable diseases and are now on standby to protect them against COVID-19.
“Authorised immunisers must have successfully completed the mandatory vaccine training provided by the Department of Health, including all the relevant vaccine-specific modules for vaccines available through the pharmacy program,” Mr Peachey said.
PSA continues to work closely with the TGA and ATAGI to ensure pharmacists are equipped with the most up-to-date advice regarding vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Media contact: PSA media 0424 777 463
