CVS Health, Stop & Shop offering flu shots as flu season converges with COVID-19

CVS HEALTH and Stop & Shop are now offering flu shots as flu season approaches. AP FILE PHOTO/CAROLYN KASTER

PROVIDENCE – As flu season approaches amidst the COVID-19 public health crisis, both CVS Health Corp. and Stop & Shop Supermarket Co. say they are now offering flu vaccines in locations across Rhode Island.

Both companies require patients to wear masks in order to receive the vaccine. At CVS pharmacies and Minute Clinics, patients must also have their temperature taken prior to getting the shot.

“Because it can take two weeks for the vaccine to build immunity, we encourage all of our patients to get their shot in September or early October, before flu season peaks,” said Jon Roberts, chief operating officer for CVS Health.

Stop & Shop pharmacies have ordered extra stock of the flu vaccine in anticipation of higher-than-usual demand this season.

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“We are well-stocked and offer immunizations without appointments,” said Katie Thornell, Stop & Shop’s director of pharmacy. “While prices associated with vaccinations are dependent upon customers’ insurance plans, most end up being low cost or no cost.”

According to a nationwide survey commissioned by CVS Health, the COVID-19 pandemic is resulting in the likelihood of a significant increase in the amount of people who opt for the flu shot this year.

Survey results show consumers being increasingly likely to get the shot with each passing month, with 66% of those surveyed in July reporting that they plan to get vaccinated. That compares with 34% in January of this year.

Elizabeth Graham is a PBN contributing writer.

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