South Australians now have greater access to free vaccines able to be administered by approved pharmacists, helping to relieve pressure on GPs and better protect the community from vaccine-preventable diseases.

The National Immunisation Program Vaccination in Pharmacy Program (NIPVIP), an Australian Government initiative, subsidises community pharmacies to administer the National Immunisation Program.

The program increases access to free vaccines across the state for eligible children and adults aged five and above.

Those under five years of age can still access childhood vaccines through GPs and council clinics.

The vaccines available from approved pharmacies to eligible South Australians will protect against diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus, human papillomavirus (HPV), pneumococcal disease and meningococcal 
disease.

Vaccines were made available for pharmacies to order from the SA Health Vaccine Distribution Centre from January 4, and are expected to be ready for consumers from late January.

Approved pharmacies may start to offer bookings during January as stock becomes available.

Pharmacists will be able to order the shingles vaccine as supplies become available from the Federal Government.

Vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza are already delivered by community pharmacists.

South Australians can speak to their pharmacist about options and how to book an appointment.

For more about eligibility, refer to the website or speak to a pharmacist.

A list of approved pharmacies, and details for pharmacists about the National Immunisation Program Vaccination in Pharmacy Program (NIPVIP), can be found at the SA Health website.