Retailers roll out flu shots
Flu shots are now available at retailers, including all Giant and Martin’s in-store pharmacies, as well as Walmart's pharmacies.
“Flu vaccinations are reformulated each year as the flu virus changes, which is why it’s so important for all ages to get flu shots annually,” said Leigh Shirley, director of pharmacy operations at Giant. “Flu shots are the most effective way to fight the flu, especially in older adults and young children, so it’s important to take action now to protect yourself and your family from the upcoming cold and flu season.”
Flu shots for the 2024-2025 season are all trivalent and protect against three strains of influenza: H1N1, H3N2, and a B/Victoria lineage virus. Giant and Martin’s pharmacies carry several different types of flu shots for children, adults and seniors, including standard and high-dose products.
[Read more: Walgreens releases 2023-2024 flu index]
Most insurance plans cover flu shots at $0 copays, including Medicare Part B. Flu shots are administered by immunizing Giant and Martin’s pharmacists and specially trained pharmacy team members, subject to state regulations. Walk-ins are welcome but customers also may make an appointment if they prefer. In addition, starting Aug. 30, customers who present their Giant or Martin’s card and receive a flu shot can get an offer for $5 off $25 of a future grocery order.
Giant noted that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccination. While the CDC recommends flu shots by the end of October for everyone over six months, certain groups of people are at greater risk for complications from the flu. These groups include people with diabetes, pregnant women, adults over 65, children under 5, those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases, those with kidney and liver disorders, heart disease patients and those with compromised immune systems.
[Read more: CVS Health survey: More than two-thirds of Americans plan to get a flu shot this season]
To find the nearest Giant or Martin’s pharmacy, visit the Giant or Martin’s websites or download the free Giant or Martin’s Pharmacy App.
Walmart also announced that it is now offering the 2024-2025 flu vaccine for everyone aged three years and up at its pharmacies nationwide.
“As the new school year begins and daily routines become busier, it’s really important for families and people of all ages to prioritize getting their flu shots," said Bruce Blackwell, a pharmacist at Walmart in Gonzales, Texas. “Walmart is encouraging everyone to schedule their appointments now ahead of peak respiratory illness season to help keep our communities healthy this fall.”
To schedule an appointment, customers can walk-in to their local Walmart pharmacy or book an appointment online. To save time, customers also can schedule multiple immunizations for the same day, and families have the option to conveniently book up to three people under one appointment. To find a pharmacy location near them, customers can visit here.