Vaccination information for pharmacists

NSW Public Health Units have received reports of patients improperly storing vaccines, such as keeping them unrefrigerated or in domestic fridges before administration. These practices can render vaccines ineffective.

Patients should be advised to take vaccines directly from the pharmacy to their healthcare provider for administration. If this isn’t possible, pharmacists should store the vaccine in the pharmacy fridge until it can be transported appropriately.

Vaccines must be kept within +2°C to +8°C. If this can’t be guaranteed, the vaccine should not be used, and a replacement may be needed. Alfoil bags are not suitable for cold chain storage, nor are cars or domestic fridges. For further information see section 6.2 of the National Vaccine Storage Guidelines ‘Strive for 5’ (September 2025).

HealthPathways also has some guidance on vaccine storage and cold chain breaches.

Community pharmacies must not charge eligible patients for National Immunisation Program (NIP) or state-funded vaccines, as these are provided free. Pharmacist immunisers should claim reimbursement via the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP). Administration fees may only apply to privately purchased or state-funded vaccines.

The Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation (SKAI) initiative has released updated, accessible resources to support adolescent vaccination. These include strategies for reducing needle fear, considerations for adolescents with disabilities, and information on all recommended vaccines.

Pharmacist immunisers are encouraged to refer parents and adolescents to the SKAI website for evidence-based, easy-to-understand vaccination advice.