What pharmacists should know about vaccine innovations

In this article:

• What’s new in vaccines
• Emerging technologies
• Vaccine applications in practice
• Communication with patients

In this article

• What’s new in vaccines
• Emerging technologies
• Vaccine applications in practice
• Communication with patients

Vaccine technology is moving faster these days. While traditional vaccines often took years or decades to create, mRNA and nanoparticle methods now make it quicker to respond to new pathogens. 

At the same time, patient behavior has shifted. Many people no longer rely on the doctor’s office for vaccines. Instead, they head straight to the pharmacy, where the pharmacist has become the face of vaccination. That means pharmacists must not only administer vaccines, but also answer questions from curious (or skeptical) patients. 

What’s new in vaccines?

These are the biggest innovations affecting your patients.

RSV vaccines

RSV vaccines are a huge step toward preventing respiratory illnesses. After decades of research, the FDA approved the first RSV vaccine for older patients in 2023.

Two options are now available for older people 60 and older: Arexvy (from GSK) and Abrysvo (from Pfizer). Both reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in older adults, which often leads to hospitalizations in older adults.

Abrysvo also works for pregnant women between weeks 32 and 36, giving newborns protection during their most vulnerable first six months. RSV season typically runs from November to March, making timing especially important. Side effects are usually mild, such as arm soreness or fatigue.

Intranasal at-home flu vaccines (FluMist) 

FluMist offers a needle-free, intranasal option for people ages of 2 and 49. It uses weakened live viruses that can’t cause illness, and works as effectively as a flu shot. It’s sprayed into each nostril and can be used at home, making it convenient and less intimidating than injections, especially for children and those with needle anxiety. 

Combination vaccines

Combination vaccines are streamlining immunization schedules. Penbraya, approved in 2023,  was the first U.S. vaccine to protect against all five major meningococcal groups (A, B, C, W, Y) in just two doses, six months apart. Penmenvy, approved in 2025, built on this by offering similar broad protection against meningococcal in a single product. 

More combination vaccines are on the horizon, including:

• Flu + COVID 
• Flu + RSV 
• Expanded pediatric combinations

For patients, this means fewer appointments, fewer injections, and better adherence to vaccine schedules. 

Emerging technologies to watch

There are a lot of exciting technologies in the vaccine pipeline right now, and some of them could change how pharmacists do their jobs in the next few years.

mRNA technology

Moving beyond COVID, researchers are studying mRNA vaccines for mpox, the seasonal flu, RSV, and more.

Microneedle patches

Microneedle patches with tiny needles that dissolve under the skin may one day replace syringes. They don’t require refrigeration, and patients can apply them at home, which could help make vaccinations accessible, convenient, and less painful.

Universal flu vaccines

Universal flu vaccines aim to protect against multiple flu strains with one shot. Current flu vaccines only work against specific strains each year. A universal vaccine would provide longer-lasting protection.

Therapeutic vaccines

Therapeutic vaccines are a different story. Instead of preventing disease, they help treat it. Cancer vaccine research is picking up, with scientists developing dendritic cell vaccines to boost immune response and make tumors more sensitive to checkpoint inhibitors. One day, these could be part of standard cancer care.

Even if these aren’t in your fridge yet, it’s worth keeping an eye out. Patients are going to have questions, and the more you know, the more you can help. 

What this means for pharmacy practice

New vaccine technology will eventually shake up daily life for retail pharmacies if it hasn’t already. 

Workflow and training

Pharmacists already deliver nearly 70% of COVID-19 vaccines, and new technologies will only add complexity. Some of these new vaccines may require special storage, longer post-administration monitoring, or new preparation steps. 

Training will need to expand to include mRNA, viral vector, and protein subunit options. Each technology has unique side effects and contraindications to watch for. For example, mRNA vaccines may cause temporary lymphadenopathy, while viral vector vaccines may be contraindicated in those with prior adenovirus exposure or clotting risks.

As new vaccines get approved, pharmacy staff might need updates on:

• New injection techniques 
• Updated screening questions 
• Different adverse reactions
• New documentation requirements

Scheduling is getting more complex, with some vaccines needing longer appointments or follow-ups. 

Billing, coding, and inventory

Pharmacies may need to rethink booking and patient flow. Billing and coding are also changing, with new vaccines bringing new codes or rules that can vary by state. 

Inventory may be trickier, with varying storage temps, ordering rules, and limited distribution for some products. 

Ongoing education

Keeping up with evolving guidelines and recommendations is critical. Pharmacies should expect regular training updates on screening, injection techniques, and adverse reaction management.

Practical communication tips for talking with patients

Pharmacists aren’t just vaccine administrators; they’re educators and trusted advisors. Clear, empathetic communication is key.

Start by listening. Ask what’s actually on their mind before you launch into an explanation. They might have specific concerns about vaccines, and don’t assume you know their worries. Trust starts with listening, not lecturing.

Keep it simple. Avoid the medical jargon and don’t overload people when explaining how vaccines work. Instead of “immunogenicity,” say “how well it helps your body fight infection.” Patients will appreciate it when you talk to them in everyday language.

Don’t work around myths. If patients share incorrect information, gently correct it with facts, not confrontation. Pharmacists are in a great position to manage concerns and clear up confusion. You can also make it personal and educate people on why a vaccine might matter for them. 

You might talk to patients about specific concerns using these sample conversations:

• “Can my baby get RSV and flu shots together?”: Let them know it’s safe, and reassure them that getting both vaccines helps protect against two different illnesses.
• “I don’t want multiple injections.”: Talk about combination vaccines, and mention that some vaccines can cover several diseases in one shot, which means fewer needles and fewer visits.
• “Are nasal spray vaccines effective?”: Explain that they work well for many people and are especially helpful for kids or needle-averse adults.

Looking ahead: The next 5 years

The vaccine world is changing fast. Advances in vaccines will change not only what’s being administered but also how pharmacists connect with their community. 

Artificial intelligence is already helping drugmakers develop vaccines faster, which means new products could show up at the pharmacy counter more often. Pharmacists will need to quickly learn about each new option and explain the benefits in an easy-to-understand way.

Storage and distribution methods are also changing. Vaccines that don’t always need to be refrigerated or that can be made closer to home could make it easier for local pharmacies to keep them in stock, especially in smaller towns or underserved areas.

Pharmacies are also turning into immunization hubs instead of just places to pick up prescriptions. Patients may expect more than just a quick flu shot. They might want travel vaccines, specialty shots, and even health screenings, all at one visit.

The vaccine landscape is evolving at record speed, reshaping what is administered and how pharmacists care for their communities. By staying informed, adapting workflows, and communicating clearly, pharmacists can remain central to public health and help patients confidently navigate the new vaccine options.