Portugal highlighted in new FIP report on pharmacy vaccination

Portugal is presented as a leading example of vaccination in community pharmacies in the new FIP report, which brings together seven case studies in this area and highlights the growing contribution of pharmacies to strengthening national immunisation strategies. Portugal is featured alongside France, Italy, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada.

The report places particular emphasis on the essential role of community pharmacies in Portugal in the seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccination campaign, noting that the pharmacy network was responsible for administering around 70% of these vaccines during the 2023/2024 season. The integration of pharmacies increased the number of available vaccination points by more than fourfold and reduced the average travel distance for people by around 50%, helping to increase vaccination coverage through greater accessibility and proximity.

According to FIP, the seven cases analysed show that vaccination in community pharmacies is a strategic pillar of life-course immunisation, benefiting from the accessibility of pharmacies, the trusted relationship they have with the public, and the continuous training and development of pharmacy teams.