CVS Health emphasizes importance of flu vaccines

During National Influenza Week, which runs from Dec. 5 to 11, CVS Health is reminding shoppers of the importance of obtaining their flu vaccine.

Established by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in 2005, National Influenza Immunization Week was created to highlight the importance of flu shots during the holiday season and into the new year when flu activity is at its peak, the company said.

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“Last year, we saw a decline in flu cases, due in part to increased focus on personal hygiene and mask wearing as well as people spending less time in large gatherings and public places,” Prem Shah, executive vice president and chief pharmacy officer at CVS Health said. “This year, as some Americans have returned to pre-pandemic routines and activities, we expect the number of flu cases may increase, and we strongly recommend that people get their annual flu shot to help increase their immunity and protect themselves, their families and their communities.”

Both CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic will be offering consumers the opportunity to obtain their flu or COVID-19 vaccine seven days a week, with expanded evening and weekend hours.

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Currently, the retailer operates more than 1,100 MinuteClinic locations across the country that provide expert care and appropriate treatment plans for a variety of illnesses including the cold, flu, strep throat and COVID-19, the company said.