Walgreens Vaccines: Stay Protected This Season & Beyond!
Are you up-to-date on your vaccinations? Staying current with recommended vaccinations is a cornerstone of preventative healthcare, safeguarding you against a range of preventable illnesses.
The world of preventative medicine is constantly evolving, with new vaccines being developed and existing ones updated to provide even greater protection. This article delves into the current recommendations for adult vaccinations, offering insights into what you need to know to stay healthy. It is designed to be a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the sometimes-complex world of preventative care.
Here's a table summarizing essential information related to adult vaccinations and the resources available:
| Vaccine Type | Recommended For | Purpose | Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Influenza (Flu) | Adults, especially those at high risk (elderly, chronic conditions). | Protects against seasonal flu strains. | Annual vaccination; a good match between vaccine and circulating strains is key. | Available at Walgreens. |
| Pneumococcal | Adults 65+, or adults with certain medical conditions. | Protects against pneumonia and other pneumococcal infections. | CDC recommends different vaccines based on eligibility; two types available. | Available at Walgreens. Schedule appointment online at walgreens.com. |
| Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) | Adults, especially those with infants or pregnant women. | Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. | One-time dose, then booster every 10 years. | Available at Walgreens. |
| Zoster (Shingles) | Adults 50+ | Protects against shingles, a painful rash. | Recombinant zoster vaccine recommended; particularly important for immunocompromised individuals. | Available at Walgreens. |
| Hepatitis B | Adults at risk (healthcare workers, those with certain medical conditions). | Protects against hepatitis B, a liver infection. | Series of doses; safe and effective. | Available at Walgreens. |
| Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) | Adults 60+ | Protects against RSV, a common respiratory virus. | Consult with a pharmacist to determine suitability. | Available at Walgreens. Schedule your RSV vaccine today on walgreens.com or the walgreens app. |
| Rabies | Individuals at risk of exposure (animal handlers, travelers). | Protects against rabies virus. | Pre-exposure and post-exposure protocols; consult healthcare provider. | Available at Walgreens (consult with pharmacist). |
| Travel Vaccines | Individuals traveling to areas with specific disease risks. | Protects against diseases endemic to travel destinations. | Consult with a travel clinic or healthcare provider for recommendations. Vaccines offered at Walgreens vary by state, age, and health conditions. | Available at Walgreens. |
Walgreens and Vaccination Services:
Walgreens makes it easy to stay protected. "Just walk in were here to help keep you protected with the vaccines you need this season, including those for RSV and more." You can schedule a vaccination appointment online at walgreens.com or through the Walgreens app.
Pneumococcal Vaccines:
The CDC recommends two types of pneumococcal vaccines that are very effective at preventing serious pneumococcal infections. These are sometimes also referred to as pneumonia vaccines. You can schedule an appointment online for a pneumonia vaccine at Walgreens.
Differences Between Pneumococcal Vaccine Types:
It's important to understand that the CDC recommends different vaccines based on the patient's eligibility criteria. The specific differences between the two types will be discussed with your healthcare provider. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23, Pneumovax 23) is effective against 23 different types of the S. pneumoniae bacteria.
Financial Considerations:
Vaccines are often covered by insurance or government assistance. "No cost to you with most insurance." It's wise to check with your insurance plan for eligibility. The Walgreens Prescription Savings Club offers up to 20% savings off the cash price of most vaccinations. Note that this program excludes stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Washington, and North Dakota.
Benefits of Vaccination:
"Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against respiratory illnesses." Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health. Getting vaccinated also helps to protect your community by promoting herd immunity. If you do get the flu after vaccination, the influenza illness may be less severe than if you had not been vaccinated.
Flu Vaccines:
Flu vaccines are crucial. For eligible individuals, specifically for Pfizer (ages 16+ at least 6 months after their second vaccine), Moderna (ages 18+ at least 6 months after their second vaccine) and Johnson & Johnson (ages 18+ at least 2 months after their vaccine). To save a trip, you can get a flu shot at the same time.
RSV Vaccine:
Schedule your Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine today on walgreens.com or the Walgreens app. The vaccines are available in most states, and your pharmacist will help decide if the RSV vaccine is right for you.
Rabies Vaccine:
If you have received rabies vaccination in the past, you typically need only 2 doses of rabies vaccine after an exposure. Rabies vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines. A dose of rabies vaccine or soon afterwards is crucial in post-exposure scenarios.
Important Considerations Before Vaccination:
Before receiving any vaccine, it's important to "tell your vaccination provider if the person getting the vaccine:" has any allergies or health conditions.
Additional Resources and Savings:
If you have any questions or would like more information, speak with your pharmacist. "Rewards to thank patients for choosing Walgreens as their vaccination destination," Walgreens is offering a $5 Walgreens Cash reward when you spend $20 after each vaccine received in-store to individuals who have a registered MyWalgreens account.* One way you may be able to save money on vaccines at Walgreens is by visiting GoodRx and searching for.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
