[General practitioner's role in immunization practice: prevention, counseling and protection of patients at risk]

In Italy, General Practitioner (GP) plays a key role in directing patients in immunization practice, especially those at risk, who might benefit most from vaccine protection. The numerous GP's specific activities in this field include vaccine administration, reporting of adverse reactions, check of vaccination status, counseling, identification of at-risk patients, recommendation for post-exposure prophylaxis, self and ambulatory staff immunization. GP is one the main health professionals in charge of patients care and has the task to ensure both diseases prevention and health care costs restraint.