Connaissances, Représentations et Pratiques Vaccinales Chez les Pharmaciens d’Officine

Abstract

Vaccination is one of the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases and represents a major public health challenge. Owing to its effectiveness, vaccination has significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with numerous infectious diseases and has even led to the eradication of certain diseases, such as smallpox. However, despite the progress achieved, vaccination coverage remains insufficient in many countries, particularly due to vaccine hesitancy, lack of information, and misconceptions circulating within the population. In this context, community pharmacists, as accessible healthcare professionals, play a key role in promoting vaccination, raising patient awareness, and improving vaccination coverage. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and vaccination practices of community pharmacy staff in Algeria, as well as their involvement in vaccination policy and their perception of the evolving role of pharmacists in this field. To achieve this objective, a national cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between February and March 2026. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of 29 questions, distributed electronically through social media platforms and email, as well as in paper format in selected community pharmacies. A total of 87 professionals participated in the survey. The results showed that the majority of respondents had a positive perception of vaccination. Most participants recognized the essential role of pharmacists in health education, patient counseling, and combating vaccine hesitancy. The findings also revealed a strong interest in continuing education in vaccinology and broad support for integrating pharmacists into vaccination practices within community pharmacies. Most respondents encouraged the development and implementation of vaccination services in community pharmacy settings.This study highlights the important role of community pharmacists in strengthening vaccination policy in Algeria. It also emphasizes the need to further develop training programs, awareness initiatives, and professional support measures in order to optimize pharmacists’ contribution to disease prevention and public health promotion