Fernandina Beach, Fla. – State Sen. Aaron Bean is pushing a bill through Tallahassee that would allow families to get most of their vaccines at their local pharmacy. He says the recent outbreak of measles across the country is a wake-up call for parents and physicians.
The state representative from Fernandina Beach says on average, people in Florida refill prescriptions about 12 times a year but will only visit a doctor about once a year. News4Jax spoke with a local pharmacist and nanny, Molly Skipper, who agrees with Senator Bean's idea that going to a neighborhood pharmacy will be much easier for families.
"Babies aren't always on your schedule so the more convenient the better." says Skipper. She takes care of 3-month-old Patrick and knows the importance of flexibility. She also happens to be a pharmacist and knows the importance of getting vaccinated. "You can't just rely on other people to do what they're supposed to do and your baby gets the benefits when they're not vaccinated, so it all goes hand in hand."
Senator Aaron Bean is hoping to pass a law that would allow pharmacists to give ANY CDC-recommended vaccine -- not just the seasonal flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccines like they're allowed to do now.
"It makes it more accessible so there's really no excuse." says Skipper.
The recent measles outbreak traced to Disneyland in California and other cases in 17 states is an unfortunate reminder of just how important vaccinations are. Gary Roberts with Roberts Southbank Pharmacy says not only would it be good for his business, it would also be good for people from all walks of life.
"There are pharmacies on almost every corner now so it should be accessible to all populations, not just those who are affluent- those who are less affluent can get to a pharmacy in most cases." According to Roberts
As a pharmacist and a nanny, Skipper is really hoping Senator Bean's vision moves forward.
"The pharmacy is there to protect everyone so it's good they're going to be an avenue to get vaccines since it's crucial to everyone's health" states Skipper.
Senator Bean says staying updated on vaccines is one of the easiest ways to keep Floridians healthy and prevent the spread of diseases.