The Icelandic Medicines Agency has granted a temporary exemption from the prescription requirement for the Influvac influenza vaccine. This means that vaccination can be obtained without a prescription at pharmacies that meet the required conditions. The exemption applies from 27 October 2026 up to and including 26 October 2027.

The exemption applies only to vaccination on the pharmacy premises. It does not allow the vaccine to be dispensed without a prescription to take home or to be administered elsewhere.

Professional service and safety as guiding principles

Pharmacies that intend to offer vaccinations must have confirmation from the Director of Health that the service meets professional requirements and other conditions of health legislation. Vaccinations must be carried out by pharmacists or nurses who have the required authorisation and appropriate training.

The Icelandic Medicines Agency places particular emphasis on ensuring that the vaccination service does not undermine professional pharmaceutical services in pharmacies. Staffing and organisation must ensure sufficient capacity for the safe dispensing of medicines, the provision of advice on their use, and other statutory services to the public.

The exemption will be reviewed if necessary

The exemption remains in force for one year, unless changed, provided that all its conditions are met. It may be reviewed, for example, if the bill currently before the Althing is passed, which concerns, among other things, pharmacists' right to prescribe vaccines. In addition, the exemption may lapse for individual pharmacies if they no longer meet the conditions for providing vaccinations under their agreement with Icelandic Health Insurance.

The exemption covers Influvac, suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe, and is granted under Article 14(2) of the Medicines Act No. 100/2020.