flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations Limited to Selectโ Pharmacies in Thuringia
As Germany prepares โfor the fall and winter respiratory virus season, access to flu and COVID-19 vaccinations through pharmacies in Thuringia remains limited, with only โa fraction of the state’s approximately 480 pharmacies offering the service. The restricted availability stems from financial disincentives and logistical challenges for smaller pharmacies, raising concerns about equitable access toโ preventative healthcare.
While legal discussions continue regarding expanded vaccination authority for โpharmacists beyond flu and COVID-19, current regulations and economic realities mean manyโ pharmacies are unable toโ participate.Health insurance โขreimbursement rates for vaccinations are not cost-covering, especially during periods of low demand, and require specialized staff training โขand dedicated vaccination rooms – investments that are often impractical for smaller operations.
Pharmacists in Thuringia are currently authorized to administer only flu and COVID-19 vaccines,with all otherโ immunizationsโ remaining the domain of physician โคoffices. According to pharmacyโข representatives, the seasonal nature of โฃflu vaccinations adds โto the burden, necessitating repeated staff training each year.
A nationwide “Long Night of Vaccination” campaign is underway to promote early immunization, butโ Thuringia has limited participation, asโ evidenced by the organizers’ website. Theโฃ campaign, led by doctors’ practices and pharmacies,โฃ aims to boostโฃ uptake ofโ flu and COVID-19 vaccines before the peak of theโข respiratory illness season.