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IMMUNIZATION Immunization is a key element in the prevention of infectious disease. Since their inception, vaccines have dramatically decreased human mortality and morbidity. They are the first mode of preventive health care provided to infants and are strongly recommended for adults, especially those older than 65 years of age. Two major causes of vaccine-preventable infections in the United States are influenza and pneumococcal disease. A challenge for both childhood and adult immunizations is not only attaining established goals but also sustaining immunization rates over time. Pharmacists are in a unique position as one of the most accessible health care professionals to be year-round resources and advocates for immunization. Pharmacists can provide education on the importance of immunization and also administer immunizations to their patients. The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a national certificate program for pharmacists to learn "Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery." It is officially recognized by the CDC and is offered by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), pharmacy schools, and state associations. The program is a combination of a self-study component and class instruction where the pharmacists obtain practical experience administering immunizations. The Commissioned Corps Officers in the Public Health Service are strongly committed to advancing this public health initiative. There are approximately 270 PHS officers who have completed the "Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery" training. In 2007, 65 PHS Pharmacists immunized patients at flu clinics with Federal Occupational Health (FOH) and 2006, 20 PHS Pharmacists participated in these flu clinics. These were at multiple flu clinic sites and outreach clinics and PHS pharmacists from multiple agencies participated. Please contact the appropriate individual if you have questions:
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