News release

Pharmacists to Give Flu Shots

Health and Wellness

Starting this fall, many Nova Scotians will be able to get free flu shots at their local pharmacies. Regulation changes effective today, May 28, give pharmacists the authority to give the vaccination.

"Pharmacists are the most accessible health care professionals for the general public, especially in rural communities," said Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson. "By giving pharmacists the authority to give flu shots, we're bringing better care sooner to Nova Scotia families by making it easier for them to get vaccinated, stay healthy, and avoid spreading influenza to others."

Nova Scotia joins New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia in giving pharmacists the authority to give flu shots. Nova Scotia's regulations also include other drugs such as travel vaccines, which customers pay for. The regulations also give pharmacists the authority to order and interpret tests to help manage a person’s drug therapy, such as blood tests to monitor and adjust the dose of blood thinners.

"The regulation changes allow pharmacists to more fully apply their skills and knowledge within the healthcare system to further support the health and well-being of Nova Scotians," said Shelagh Campbell-Palmer, manager of professional practice for the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists. "The authority to administer drugs by injection will allow pharmacists to play an important role in combating vaccine preventable diseases."

The college is developing standards of practice for giving vaccines and drugs, and for ordering and interpreting lab tests. Once they are in place, pharmacists with proper training may choose to offer these services.

The college will also work with Dalhousie University's Faculty of Pharmacy to ensure training is available for pharmacists who need it.