Many individuals lack awareness about the clinical benefits associated with vaccines and are often unaware of the current recommendations for their age group. A recent report from the CDC revealed that despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines, routine vaccination rates among adults remain low, and disparities in adult vaccination coverage by race, ethnicity, and other demographic factors have remained unchanged over the last several years. Myths, misconceptions, misinformation, and fears about safety and adverse effects are often documented as primary contributors to vaccine hesitancy, as well as the absence of a provider recommendation or offer for vaccination, lack of access to vaccines, or insurance coverage.

According to the National Foundation of Infectious Diseases, there are 10 primary reasons to get vaccinated, including the following:

1. Vaccine-preventable diseases still exist, and while many preventable diseases are no longer a threat in the United States, global travel may increase exposure to certain diseases.
2. Vaccines can prevent or reduce diseases, and some vaccines provide lifelong protection from certain diseases and infections.
3. Vaccines are the most effective and safest preventable care measures and are just as essential to overall health as diet and exercise.
4. Vaccines are vital in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from vaccine-preventable illnesses.
5. Vaccines are safe and effective. Rigorous clinical trials are conducted to establish their efficacy and safety, reassuring healthcare professionals and the public. This confidence in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines is a critical factor in promoting routine vaccination for all age groups.
6. Vaccines do not cause the disease they are designed to prevent, and they do not put individuals at risk of the disease’s complications, which is a common misconception.
7. Vaccine-preventable diseases can affect any age group.
8. Vaccines are cost-effective.
9. Vaccines provide community protection, especially for vulnerable patient populations, such as pediatric patients, elderly patients, and immunocompromised individuals.
10. Vaccines help prevent the loss of productivity and absenteeism from work and school due to illness.

As the fall season approaches, expanding efforts to promote vaccination against various highly contagious respiratory diseases, including influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease, are critical to protecting patients, especially vulnerable populations at greater risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and even death.

Pharmacists play multiple roles in augmenting vaccination awareness as patient educators, clinicians, and vaccine administrators. Moreover, various publications have revealed that patients prefer obtaining vaccinations at their local pharmacies due to convenience, no need for appointments, ease of access, and flexibility of hours to fit into their schedules.

As front-line healthcare providers, pharmacists can leverage National Immunization Awareness Month to expand knowledge about the significance of routine vaccination for all age groups and, when feasible, engage patients in conversation to assess vaccination status and make clinical recommendations based on patient needs. Pharmacists can provide patients and caregivers with concise and accurate information about the most recent vaccine recommendations through effective patient-education measures, enabling patients and caregivers to make informed decisions about their health and vaccination needs.   

The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.