In Switzerland, specially trained pharmacists may vaccinate healthy adults without a prescription. Which vaccinations are actually allowed is regulated at cantonal level and therefore differs from canton to canton – the seasonal flu vaccination and the TBE (tick) vaccination are frequently included, and in many cantons COVID-19 as well. Beforehand the pharmacy clarifies in a short conversation whether a vaccination is suitable for the person and records it in the vaccination card.
The process is straightforward: you often come spontaneously or with a short appointment, fill in a health questionnaire, receive advice and get the vaccination in a separate, quiet area. After the injection you usually wait a few minutes for safety. The vaccination itself takes only minutes. For people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women or children, the pharmacy refers you to a doctor depending on the case.
The advantage lies in the low threshold: no waiting for a doctor's appointment, long opening hours, close to home. Many people therefore use the pharmacy especially for the autumn flu vaccination. It remains important that the vaccination is recorded in the vaccination card (ideally digital) so the immunisation status is fully documented.
Costs depend on the vaccination and canton. A flu vaccination at the pharmacy costs roughly CHF 30–40 including vaccine and service and usually has to be paid for yourself; for certain risk groups or as part of campaigns coverage may be possible (guide values, no guarantee). The TBE vaccination is more expensive as several doses are needed. It is best to ask the pharmacy in advance about price and reimbursement.