(WXYZ) — Rite Aid announced Wednesday that seasonal flu shots are already available at all Rite Aid locations in metro Detroit.
The news comes as people are encouraged to get the flu vaccination as soon as possible to maintain strong immune systems as we head toward the fall with the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Rite Aid has remained on the front lines helping communities during these challenging times, and our team of certified immunizing pharmacists are the whole-being health advocates customers can depend on for guidance this flu season," said Jocelyn Konrad, executive vice president and chief pharmacy officer, Rite Aid. "Our trusted pharmacists are here seven days a week to offer a holistic approach to keeping our communities as healthy as possible, including insight into ancillary vaccines, as well as vitamins, supplements and wellness products that can support immunity and overall health."
"At a time when our health care system is still reeling from the impact of COVID-19, protecting our communities from the flu is more important than ever," Rite Aid Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kel Riley. "We are prepared to immunize more individuals and families during the upcoming flu season than in any previous year. As COVID-19 and flu season collide, the role of our pharmacists defending the health and wellness of our communities is more critical than ever before."
This year, Rite Aid's flu vaccinations include:
- Quadrivalent flu vaccine, which provides protection against four strains of the flu: the influenza A H3N2 virus, the influenza A H1N1 virus and two strains of influenza B virus
- FLUAD, a trivalent vaccine with adjuvant, an ingredient that helps create a stronger immune response to vaccination, approved for people 65 and older
- Fluzone HD, a high-dose vaccine indicated for patients 65 and older
- Flublok, a unique vaccine that is processed without EGG, indicated for patients 18 and older
The CDC recommends that everyone six months old and older get a flu shot early as it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to become effective.
Flu shots are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, and are available during pharmacy hours; no appointment is necessary. To locate the nearest Rite Aid pharmacy, visit www.riteaid.com
