Rite Aid to host flu shot clinics at nationwide pharmacies

With the holidays getting closer, Rite Aid is reminding people to get a flu shot so that the only thing they are spreading this season is good cheer. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it can take up to two weeks for flu shots to be effective and protect against the flu; those who get their flu shot now can help protect themselves by the time they sit down for Thanksgiving dinner.

“With holiday celebrations around the corner, now is the perfect time to get vaccinated. Get your flu shot during one of Rite Aid's flu shot clinics or from any Rite Aid immunizing pharmacist and help keep you and your family healthy this holiday season.”

Rite Aid will host flu shot clinics at more than 800 Rite Aid pharmacies nationwide later this month. Nurses will give flu shots on a first-come, first-served basis at flu shot clinics November 9, 10 and 11 from 2 to 6 p.m. Flu shots are available for $24.99, and many insurance plans cover the cost of the shots. Most customers with Medicare will have no co-pay. Details on flu shot clinics can be found at www.riteaid.com/flu or by calling toll-free 1-866-751-1494.

Flu shots are also being administered by more than 7,000 Rite Aid immunizing pharmacists in more than 3,000 stores on a walk-in or appointment basis. All vaccinations are subject to state regulations. To find an immunizing pharmacist or to learn more about Rite Aid's year-round immunization program including vaccinations for diseases including pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis A and B, shingles and others, visit www.riteaid.com.

"Flu shots should be part of everyone's holiday to-do list," said Robert Thompson, Rite Aid Executive Vice President of Pharmacy. "With holiday celebrations around the corner, now is the perfect time to get vaccinated. Get your flu shot during one of Rite Aid's flu shot clinics or from any Rite Aid immunizing pharmacist and help keep you and your family healthy this holiday season."

This year's single dose flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses, including the 2009 H1N1 virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine as soon as it's available, as it's the single best way to prevent getting the flu.

Flu season in the United States can begin as early as November and can continue through mid-May, with the highest concentration of cases occurring between December and April. Additional information about the upcoming flu season can be found at www.cdc.gov. Rite Aid pharmacists also can counsel patients and answer questions about the flu.

Anyone who gets a flu shot at Rite Aid will receive a free coupon booklet that offers over $100 in savings, while supplies last. The booklet includes savings on health and wellness, beauty and household items and other products available at Rite Aid.

Pneumococcal shots for pneumonia also are being offered at Rite Aid flu clinics and by Rite Aid immunizing pharmacists and can be administered at the same time as a flu shot. Pneumococcal shots are $50 and like flu shots, many insurance plans cover the cost of the shots, and most customers with Medicare will have no co-pay.

Source: Rite Aid Corporation