Community pharmacies across Northern Ireland have administered almost 50,000 winter flu vaccinations, highlighting their central role in supporting the health service during one of its busiest periods of the year.
The figure reflects both the accessibility of community pharmacies and a rise in public demand for NHS vaccinations compared with previous winters.
Gerard Greene, chief executive of Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI), said community pharmacy continues to play a vital role in delivering the winter vaccination programme while supporting the wider health system under sustained pressure.
He said pharmacies remain the open door of the health service, allowing people to speak directly with their local pharmacist about vaccination options.
In some cases, patients may be vaccinated immediately while receiving other services, while in other situations an appointment can be arranged at a time that suits both the patient and the pharmacy.
Mr Greene emphasised that pharmacy teams are working through an exceptionally busy period, delivering vaccines as quickly and safely as possible while continuing to provide day to day care for patients.
He said eligible patients for the NHS winter flu vaccination programme will continue to be prioritised.
Those who are not eligible for an NHS vaccination and wish to receive a private flu vaccine have been advised to contact their local community pharmacy in advance to check availability.
Mr Greene also highlighted ongoing pressures around vaccine supply, noting that when pharmacy stock is used up, replacement vaccines depend on deliveries from the Public Health Agency supplier.
With current demand levels, replacement stock does not always arrive quickly enough, adding further strain to already busy pharmacy teams.
He encouraged the public to remain patient and respectful during the winter period, recognising the significant workload pharmacy staff are managing.
Community pharmacies, he said, will continue to do everything possible to care for patients throughout the winter months, whether through vaccination services or the wide range of clinical care they provide daily.