As fall quickly approaches, unfortunately, so does flu season. But getting a flu vaccination is now easier than ever. The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs has partnered with Walgreens to provide free influenza shots to veterans.
The VA has partnered with Walgreens because it says, “receiving an annual vaccination is widely recognized as the best method for preventing disease and death related to influenza.”
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) orders almost 2 million doses of flu vaccine annually, according to the VA.
The flu shots are provided free to VA patients and employees at VA medical centers and Community Based Outpatient Clinics.
A key component of the VA’s flu-prevention strategy also includes educating VA community members on the importance of sanitation, such as washing hands frequently, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and staying away from friends, family and co-workers when sick.
According to the VA, this partnership with Walgreens offers greater access to flu vaccine, and as a result, tens of thousands Veteran patients have received flu shots at a local Walgreens. This flu season, the partnership between VA and Walgreens continues through March 31, 2017.
Any veteran currently enrolled in VA care may walk into one of the more than 8,000 Walgreens nationwide, this includes Duane Reade pharmacies in the New York metropolitan area, to receive a free flu shot. A valid photo ID and veteran identification card are required.
“VA is committed to keeping Veteran patients healthy, and during flu season, vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of flu,” says a post on the VA Blog. “No matter where you live, visit your local VA clinic or Walgreens to get a free flu shot.”
- To find your local VA, visit http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp
- To locate a Walgreens store near you, call 800-WALGREENs (800-925-4733), or go to Walgreens.com/findastore
- To learn more about the partnership, call 1-877-771-8537 or visit ehealth.va.gov/Immunization.asp.
- To get more information on flu and flu vaccine, visit http://www.publichealth.va.gov/flu or cdc.gov/flu
Sources:
http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/31028/va-walgreens-team-up-to-fight-influenza/
http://www.publichealth.va.gov/flu
