You asked which health professionals are authorized to administer vaccinations in a public health emergency. You are particularly interested in whether pharmacists have this authority.

A 2003 law, “An Act Concerning Public Health Emergency Response Authority,” expanded the list of health professionals who are authorized to administer vaccinations during a public health emergency. Specifically, the act allows the public health commissioner to authorize any qualified person, including, but not limited to, dentists, veterinarians, and paramedics, to administer vaccinations if he determines this is needed to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. Existing law already gave this authority to physicians, nurses, and physician assistants (Sec. 7 of PA 03-236; CGS Sec. 19a-131f).

The commissioner’s authorization must be written, specify how long it lasts, and contain the categories of people covered and any additional training they need before administering vaccinations. The law does not specifically mention pharmacists.

JK: dw