Pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare by ensuring that patients receive the right medications and healthcare services. In recent times, the importance of vaccination services has surged, with COVID-19, seasonal flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) posing significant threats. In this blog post, we'll explore the key aspects of these vaccines and the opportunities for pharmacists to provide vaccination services to patients in long-term care (LTC) settings. 

COVID-19 Vaccination 

The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency officially ended in May, but the disease continues to pose a significant health risk to LTC residents, who are often more vulnerable.  Vaccination of both residents and staff is the primary and most effective method to combat its spread.  LTC Pharmacies stepped up to the plate during the pandemic by offering COVID-19 vaccinations and, as many have predicted, COVID-19 vaccines have continued to evolve to defend against emerging variants. Pharmacists can help bridge the gap by administering updated COVID-19 vaccines to residents and staff, ensuring their safety. 

The FDA has approved several updated COVID-19 vaccines that are specific to the XBB/Omicron variant.  These updated vaccines require just a single dose and are approved for all ages, as young as 6 months.  The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recommended the updated COVID-19 vaccine for all people aged 50 and older, people residing in LTC settings, and those pregnant or with certain medical conditions.   

Seasonal Flu Vaccination 

The seasonal flu is a common threat every year, and its complications can be especially severe for the elderly population in long-term care facilities. Pharmacists can play a significant role in promoting flu vaccination among residents and staff. This can help reduce the risk of a dual outbreak of COVID-19 and the flu, which could overwhelm healthcare systems. 

The 2023-2024 seasonal flu vaccines are identical to the previous year, with an additional update to include coverage for the H1N1 virus type. New for this year, the CDC has revised its guidance regarding egg allergy precautions in administering seasonal influenza vaccines. Previously, individuals with an egg allergy were advised to be vaccinated in a medical setting. Beginning with the 2023-2024 season, additional safety measures are no longer recommended, regardless of the severity of the egg allergy. People with an egg allergy can receive any vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based) in any setting.    

RSV Vaccination 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) primarily affects young children and older adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems. In long-term care settings, RSV can lead to severe respiratory complications, leading to over 60,000 hospitalizations and over 6,000 deaths each year in adults over 65. Earlier this year, the FDA approved the first RSV vaccines to combat the spread and complications of the disease. This new vaccine creates a novel opportunity for LTC pharmacies to expand their vaccination services and mitigate the impact of RSV among their patient populations.   

The new RSV vaccines are administered as a single dose and are approved for all adults 60 years and over. The CDC recommends that all adults over 60 may receive a single dose of the RSV vaccine, using shared clinical decision-making. The "shared clinical decision-making" language was included in the recommendation to allow flexibility for providers and patients to consider individual risk for RSV disease while taking into account patient preferences. 

Opportunities for Pharmacists in Long-Term Care 

• Vaccine Administration 

  • Pharmacists are well-positioned to provide vaccine administration services in long-term care settings. They can collaborate with healthcare facilities to schedule vaccination clinics for residents and staff, ensuring that vaccines are easily accessible.  

• Education and Counseling 

  • Pharmacists can offer valuable education and counseling services. They can explain the benefits and risks of vaccination to residents and caregivers, addressing any concerns and myths. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health. 

• Record Keeping 

  • Pharmacists can help maintain accurate vaccination records for residents and staff. Proper documentation ensures that booster shots and annual vaccinations are administered on time, reducing the risk of outbreaks. 

• Collaborative Care 

  • Pharmacists can work closely with other healthcare professionals in long-term care settings, such as nurses and physicians, to ensure a comprehensive approach to vaccination services. This collaboration improves the overall quality of care provided to residents. 

• Medication Management 

  • Pharmacists can also review residents' medication profiles to identify any potential drug interactions or contraindications with vaccines. This attention to detail can prevent adverse events and ensure that vaccinations are administered safely. 

Pharmacists have an essential role to play in providing vaccination services in long-term care settings. With the ongoing threat of COVID-19, the annual challenge of the flu, and the risk of RSV, residents and staff in these facilities rely on healthcare professionals for their protection. By offering vaccine administration, education, record-keeping, and collaborative care, pharmacists can significantly contribute to the well-being of those in long-term care settings. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, pharmacists remain at the forefront, promoting health and preventing disease. 

EXTRA: Find out more about these vaccines through our recent webinar, “Vax to the Future.” Within the webinar, you will learn how to capitalize on these crucial updates, learn how your pharmacy can profit from the new developments impacting your customers and patients, and so much more!

References 

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7229a4.htm 

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/LTCF-residents.html 

https://wecandothis.hhs.gov/resource/facts-about-covid-19-and-the-vaccines 

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2023-2024.htm​ 

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2023-2024.htm 

https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/research/index.html 

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7229a4.htm