Walgreens, TakeCare Clinics administer more than 1 million H1N1 vaccines

DEERFIELD, Ill. Walgreens, which is offering H1N1 vaccinations at all of its pharmacies and Take Care Clinics nationwide, has administered more than 1 million H1N1 vaccinations to date this season, the company announced on Monday.

"Reaching 1 million H1N1 vaccinations, most of which have come in the last three weeks, shows that Americans truly value greater convenience and access to our healthcare providers," stated Kermit Crawford, Walgreens SVP pharmacy. "As our country looks for ways to control escalating healthcare costs, this flu season has demonstrated how Walgreens can help consumers lower costs and stay well throughout the year with our affordable, preventive healthcare services."

There is heightened awareness around H1N1 vaccinations nationwide this week, as Jan. 10 marked the beginning of National Influenza Immunization Week, a Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiative that highlights the importance of influenza vaccinations after the holiday season, into January and beyond. According to the CDC, the flu season peaks after the New Year 80% of the time.

H1N1 vaccinations currently are available at all of Walgreens more than 7,100 pharmacies and more than 350 Take Care Clinics nationwide. H1N1 vaccinations are available at Walgreens pharmacies on a walk-in basis when an immunizing pharmacist is on staff and also may be available by appointment. Take Care Clinics at select Walgreens stores in 19 states have nurse practitioners and physician assistants who will provide vaccinations on a walk-in basis daily, pending vaccine availability. Age restrictions for pharmacist-administered vaccinations vary by state, while Take Care Clinics can immunize children ages 2 years and older.

The cost for the vaccine is $18. Vaccinations are covered by Medicare and may be covered by Medicaid and other insurance plans. Consumers should check with their insurance provider for coverage details.