Pharmacists Expect to Administer More Vaccinations Than Ever During this Year's Influenza Immunization Campaign

RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Nov. 3, 2015) - As the most accessible health care professionals in Canada, Pharmacists now play a key role in achieving higher flu immunization rates in Canada. During this year's immunization campaign, London Drugs pharmacists expect to administer more flu vaccinations than ever before. Longer hours, appointments, as well as flexibility for walk-in patients and customers has allowed pharmacists to significantly improve ease of access to the vaccine.

"It's really about convenience. People can literally call the pharmacy and make an appointment or walk in, fill out the paperwork and get a shot right then. So by coming to the pharmacy, they can avoid lineups or wait times at their doctor's office or at the public flu clinics," says Jason Chan-Remillard, Pharmacy Manager at London Drugs.

Aside from providing in-store injections, London Drugs pharmacists are also venturing out into communities to administer flu shots at public events. Making the vaccine accessible through pharmacists has had a substantial impact on increasing public awareness and utilization of the flu vaccine.

"People want to protect themselves and their families against the flu but they want to get it done when it is close and convenient for them. The more accessible we can be, the more people we can vaccinate," he says.

This year's seasonal flu vaccine is designed to protect against the H3N2 strain - along with H1N1 and influenza B. The vaccination is now available at all London Drugs locations where it is administered by Certified Injection Pharmacists. The public are invited to contact their local London Drugs pharmacy to inquire about getting a flu shot or visit www.LondonDrugs.com/flu for more information.

"Being proactive and prepared is the key to surviving the flu season," says Chan-Remillard. "By getting the influenza vaccination early in the season, as well as taking some simple and healthy preventative actions, you not only protect yourself, but you protect others because you are less likely to spread the flu."

ABOUT LONDON DRUGS

Founded in 1945, B.C.-based London Drugs has 79 stores in more than 35 major markets throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba including its online store www.londondrugs.com London Drugs offers consumers a range of products from digital cameras and cosmetics to computers and televisions. Renowned for its creative approach to retailing, the company employs more than 7,500 people with pharmacy and health care services being the heart of its business. Committed to innovation and superior customer service, London Drugs has established itself as a reputable and caring company and continues to position itself for future growth and development. For more information, visit www.LondonDrugs.com.

London Drugs pharmacists are available to speak to the media about flu immunizations, prevention and symptom treatment.