NACDS recognized for participation in National Influenza Vaccine Summit

Dr. Anne Schuchat, assistant surgeon general, recently recognized the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) and other organizations for their participation in the annual National Influenza Vaccine Summit.

Now in its tenth year, the summit is co-sponsored by the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It includes over 400 members who represent more than 100 public and private organizations with an interest in resolving influenza vaccine issues.

“NACDS’s role has been increasing awareness among the other members in the group that pharmacy is the face of neighborhood healthcare. We are a partner; influenza is treated best when everyone works as a team,” said Alex Adams, director of pharmacy programs for NACDS.

NACDS joined the summit 10 years ago, when the role of pharmacy in administration of influenza vaccines was very different from its role now. “We are now providing 20 percent of all flu shots, and we are trying to expand the ages to give immunizations,” Adams said.

The summit’s website, www.preventinfluenza.org, is an excellent resource for practitioners and patients, Adams added.