In response to the nationwide flu epidemic and customer demand, Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) announced today it has obtained more than 400,000 additional seasonal flu shots, which began arriving in stores earlier this week. Flu shots are being delivered to areas of need based on actual or anticipated flu outbreak activity. Flu shots will be administered by Rite Aid certified immunizing pharmacists subject to state regulations, during all pharmacy hours, with no appointment necessary.
People interested in receiving a flu shot are encouraged to call their local Rite Aid pharmacy for availability. To locate the nearest Rite Aid pharmacy, visit www.riteaid.com or call 1-800-RITE-AID. Flu shots are $29.99 each and are covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare Part B.
"This year's flu season got off to an early and strong start, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is more severe than in recent years," said Robert Thompson, Rite Aid Executive Vice President of Pharmacy. "Rite Aid pharmacists play an important role in the fight against the flu every year and that's especially true in tough seasons like this one. We are committed to helping our customers and communities fight the flu, which is why we're bringing in additional flu shots this week and encouraging anyone who hasn't received a flu shot yet to do so as soon as possible, so they can be protected against this year's flu."
To date, Rite Aid pharmacists have administered more than 2 million flu shots, and will continue to do so while supplies are available.
Additionally, Rite Aid pharmacists are available to counsel customers on over-the-counter medicines, like pain relievers, decongestants and cough medicine that can be used to help manage symptoms associated with the flu virus. Rite Aid store shelves are also stocked with additional supplies of hand sanitizer and soaps, masks, gloves, tissues and household disinfectants to help prevent the spread of the flu.
Members of Rite Aid's free customer loyalty program, wellness+, will also earn 25 points when they get their flu shot (prescriptions paid for in whole or in part by state or federal healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid and prescriptions filled in New York and New Jersey are not eligible by law for accrual of points).
Rite Aid pharmacists are also able to administer vaccinations for 12 other diseases, such as pertussis (whooping cough), shingles and pneumonia, subject to state regulations.
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