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Vaccination education as student pharmacists
A L Y S S A C O X
Vaccines are currently a hot topic among the community. Pharmacies are a main area for giving vaccinations as well as providing education to our patients. With the rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine, many people have become skeptical and are hesitant towards receiving these immunizations. Pharmacists, and pharmacy students, can play a key role in providing factual information about the vaccine and benefits and risks to help guide patients towards making the decision to get vaccinated. Not only does this apply to the COVID-19 vaccine, but also all other vaccines that may be beneficial for each patient. Knowing the key points about what each vaccine is, who it is indicated for, the dosing schedule, side effects, and who is ineligible for each vaccine can help us provide the most accurate information and guide patients towards being their healthiest self. The COVID-19 vaccine is a newer vaccine that has increased curiosity within the community. This has given student pharmacists lots of opportunity to answer vaccination questions to help shed light on the benefits of getting vaccinated. It is important to understand the basic information about each vaccine in order to properly give recommendations to our patients. Currently, the CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for all eligible people aged 5 years and older with a preference for people to receive an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer and Moderna). For those aged 5 years and older, they are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine. For those aged 18 years and older, they are eligible for the Pfizer, Moderna, or Janssen vaccine. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are 2 dose series as opposed to the Janssen vaccine which is one dose. The CDC now recommends booster doses for all vaccines for ages 12 and up, with mix and match allowed but a preference for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. For the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, patients should be informed about the risk and symptoms of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome in the 2 weeks following vaccine administration. Those who have had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose or to the components of the COVID-19 vaccine have contraindication for the COVID-19 vaccine. Some common side effects include, pain, redness, and swelling in the arm the vaccine was received. Additionally, patients may experience tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and nausea, although many do not experience any side effects. Overall, the CDC states that the vaccines are safe and effective and should be given as soon as possible to those that are eligible to help reduce the severity and likelihood of the developing COVID-19 infection.
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The influenza vaccine has been around for quite some time, but many people are still resistant to receiving it. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. The flu shot is the best way to reduce your risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. While flu vaccine effectiveness can vary each season, each year it still provides important protection. The flu shot is recommended in pregnant women; however, a live vaccine should be avoided. Though some flu vaccines are egg-based, it is unlikely to experience a severe allergic reaction from the vaccine if you have an egg allergy. A previous severe allergy to any influenza vaccine is a contraindication for the vaccine. Those who are 65 years and older should receive a high dose flu shot. Side effects include soreness, redness, and swelling in the arm where the vaccine was given. Additionally, patients may experience fever, muscle aches, and headache. There may be a small increased risk of developing GuillainBarre Syndrome after receiving an inactivated flu shot. The live vaccines can have mild side effects such as runny nose, congestion, wheezing, and headache but are usually short lived. Overall, the influenza vaccine is considered safe and should be recommended to all eligible patients each year.
Patients can be hesitant about receiving vaccines as well as talking about them. It can be a difficult conversation to have, but it is important to keep the patients’ health and wellbeing in mind. When discussing vaccine information, it is important to be compassionate and show empathy and be sure to embrace all components of their concerns. Make sure you are asking permission to discuss vaccinations with them and be respectful of their decision to refuse or accept counseling. The use of motivational interviewing can also help patients become more open to conversation and ensure it is a collaborative discussion. Responding to their questions and concerns to the best of your ability can help patients make the best decision for themselves. Developing a safe and comfortable relationship with your patients while discussing vaccinations is necessary to have a meaningful conversation.
