German Pharmacists' Association Approves New Curriculum for Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations

The German Pharmacists' Association (ABDA) has adopted a new curriculum that unifies the procedures for administering flu and COVID-19 vaccines in pharmacies. The association announced the decision on February 16, 2023.

Previously, regulations for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations in pharmacies were largely separate. Flu vaccinations were initially permitted through pilot projects for pharmacists, followed later by COVID-19 vaccinations. In mid-2022, flu vaccinations were incorporated into regular healthcare services.

At the turn of the year, lawmakers standardized the requirements for both types of vaccinations in pharmacies. ABDA was tasked, in cooperation with the German Medical Association (Bundesärztekammer), to coordinate a model curriculum for pharmacists covering both vaccinations. The newly approved curriculum merges the previously separate training modules.

ABDA has also updated its guidelines for quality assurance in the administration of flu and COVID-19 protective vaccinations by pharmacists. All relevant documents are available for download on the ABDA website.