Pharmacy flu shots start Tuesday

Pharmacists on P.E.I. will be providing their first immunizations for the flu starting on Tuesday.

Pharmacists in other parts of the Maritimes have been allowed to do this in previous years, but this is the first year for flu shots at pharmacies on P.E.I.

"If the phone calls and questions onsite have been any indication we expect we are going to have a very busy immunization season," said Erin Mackenzie, executive director of the P.E.I. Pharmacists Association.

Having the vaccine available at pharmacies, with no appointment necessary, adds to the convenience of getting the shot. Previously they were only available from a doctor or at provincially-run clinics. There will be a charge at the pharmacies, but they will be free for pregnant women, children aged five to 11, and seniors like Alan Abbott of Charlottetown.

Abbott said he is more likely to get a flu shot from a pharmacy than from a doctor or clinic.

"There are quite a number of people like myself who don't go because they can't be bothered," said Abbott.

"If it's given by the pharmacist that will be much easier."

For those who do need to pay, the fee will vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. Children under five will not be able to receive the vaccine from a pharmacist.