Pharmacists can now give the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in NSW

Pharmacists can now legally administer the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to over-50s in NSW.

NSW Health quietly approved the change late last week, however chemists are subject to strict regulations.

The vaccine must only be given to people over 50 and patients must provide written consent.

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Also, if someone has had serious side effects from their first shot a pharmacist cannot give a second one, and intern pharmacists are banned from administering the vaccine.

"It will be all hands on deck in NSW, including pharmacists," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today.

Across the state, 1250 pharmacies have been approved, their staff trained, and have fridges installed ready to take the vaccine.

"We're ready and waiting, we're armed, we're prepared, and we're waiting for the green light," David Heffernan from the Pharmacy Guild told 9News.

"We're waiting to hear which pharmacies will be allowed stock of the AstraZeneca."

You can find out more details about how to book your vaccine through the Federal Government health site here.