Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy NI, Gerard Greene
Community Pharmacy NI is urging those who have yet to receive their Covid-19 vaccine to do so at their local pharmacy as more pharmacies join the Moderna programme.
Following the success of The Big Jab Weekend and the closure of mass vaccination sites, the negotiating body for community pharmacies across Northern Ireland is reminding those who have yet to receive their first jab that it can be accessed at a number of local community pharmacies.
Currently, around 50 community pharmacies across Northern Ireland are administering the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine to all age cohorts over 18. Some 350 pharmacies are also providing the AstraZeneca to those aged over 40.
From its roll-out in March 2021, the Community Pharmacy Vaccine Programme has already successfully administered more than 135,000 Covid-19 jabs. It is estimated that these numbers will increase as community pharmacies become a leading provider of first doses of the vaccine through the Department of Health’s Evergreen Programme.
Gerard Greene, Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy NI said:
“It was fantastic to see the success of The Big Jab Weekend with the high turnout seen across vaccine centres, mobile units and community pharmacies. As the mass vaccine centres now close, we are urging those who have yet to receive their vaccine to book an appointment with a community pharmacy and get the jab in a convenient, accessible location. We encourage those seeking the vaccine at a community pharmacy to check out the web portal so you can find the closest vaccinating pharmacy.
“Getting vaccinated is the greatest protection from the virus and the best tool on offer to help Northern Ireland move out of restrictions and return to normal society. In the coming weeks, we will see a further uplift of pharmacies providing the Moderna vaccine, which will expand the options available for those who remain unvaccinated.
“We would also remind the public that community pharmacies remain open with support and guidance for any medical concern. The vaccination programme does not impact on other services and prescriptions are still being delivered in a safe, convenient and timely manner for all. Public health continues to be our top priority and the community pharmacy network remains committed to serving their communities. Please be patient with your local pharmacy teams as we work to ensure all patients are supported during this time.”
To find out which pharmacies are providing the Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccines: https://covid-19.hscni.net/community-pharmacy-covid-19-vaccination-service/