CVS now offering flu shots at Longs Drugs pharmacies and MinuteClinics
CVS Health, owner of Longs Drugs in Hawaii, announced Wednesday that flu shots are now available at all pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations.
Walmart is also offering low-cost flu vaccinations at nine Walmart pharmacies through walk-up and community flu shot clinics.
Although the nation continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, both CVS and Walmart are reminding Americans of the importance of getting a flu shot this fall to protect themselves against seasonal flu.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people get vaccinated early in the fall before flu season begins — ideally, no later than the end of October. Although flu seasons vary, the CDC said influenza activity in the U.S. often begins to increase in October, peaks between December and February, and can last as late as May.
The Hawaii Department of Health says due to the state’s high volume of tourism and tropical climate, flu here can spread year-round.
“CVS Health has administered approximately 30 million COVID-19 vaccinations to date, in addition to more than 20 million flu and other vaccinations over the past 12 months,” said Neela Montgomery, executive vice president, CVS Health, in a news release.
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The flu shots are available at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic in Longs Drugs stores, as well as at CVS Pharmacy in select Target stores. They will be available seven days a week, with expanded evening and weekend hours, according to CVS.
In a consumer survey commissioned by CVS Health, 71% of those surveyed in the U.S. said they definitely or likely will get a flu shot this season.
Appointments at CVS Pharmacy can be made at CVS.com, via the CVS app, or by texting FLU to 287898. Patients may also schedule an appointment at Minute Clinic.com. Walk-in appointments are also welcome at both CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic throughout flu season.
The flu shots at Walmart pharmacies are available on a walk-in basis. The Mililani Walmart, however, does not have a pharmacy and does not regularly offer flu shots. Walmart is also offering booster COVID-19 shots for immunocompromised people on a walk-in basis. To learn more, visit walmart.com/wellnesshub.
