Walgreens expands inoculation efforts to Chicago market

DEERFIELD, Ill. Walgreens will begin offering both H1N1 injectable and nasal vaccine at more than 30 pharmacies and a select number of Take Care Clinics throughout the city of Chicago on Dec. 11.

Vaccinations are available at these select locations from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, while supplies last. Walgreens pharmacists in Illinois are able to provide H1N1 immunizations to those ages 9 years and older, while Take Care Clinics are able to vaccinate children ages 2 years and older.

The Chicago Department of Public Health has recently broadened recommendations on who should receive an H1N1 vaccination to include everyone over the ages of 6 months.  With priority group restrictions eased, Walgreens will be making H1N1 vaccine available to all area residents who are interested in getting a vaccination and who meet state age requirements. Walgreens is working closely with city health officials as well as those in Cook County to serve as a distribution partner for the H1N1 vaccine and a community resource for information on H1N1 immunization.

The cost for the administration of the H1N1 vaccine is $18. Vaccinations may be covered by Medicare and Medicaid. Consumers are encouraged to check with their insurance provider for coverage details. Additionally, Walgreens and Take Care Health plan to offer H1N1 vaccine at additional locations throughout the Chicago area as supply becomes available, the retailer said.

“This flu season, Walgreens has truly demonstrated its role as a go-to, trusted resource for flu prevention and health care services throughout Illinois and nationwide,” said John Grant, Walgreens Chicago market VP.  “We’re here to help.  And we’re proud to partner with the Chicago Department of Public Health by providing convenient, affordable access to H1N1 vaccinations, furthering our commitment to helping individuals and their families stay well this flu season.”

Illinois is one of 28 states in which Walgreens is currently offering H1N1 vaccinations. To find the nearest Walgreens location, consumers are asked to call 1-800-Walgreens or visit www.walgreens.com/flu.  For the nearest Take Care Clinic, consumers can visit www.takecarehealth.com or call 1-866-Take-Care.