Albertsons offers four-strain flu shot

Albertsons Companies Pharmacies today announced that it is offering the QIV vaccine to consumers with the four-in-one flu vaccine maximizing protection against four common flu strains.

"We want to do all we can to keep our communities healthy, which is why we chose to provide the four-strain flu vaccine this flu season," Albertsons Companies SVP of Pharmacy Health and Wellness Mark Panzer said. "Our pharmacies are ready, day and evening, to provide vaccinations through our stores, pharmacies, and off-site flu clinics, making the process affordable and convenient."

The flu vaccine is offered on a walk-in basis with no appointment necessary at all Albertsons pharmacies. The more than 1,700 pharmacies include those in Acme, Haggen, Safeway, Vons and other Albertsons properties. Generally, insurance plans cover the cost of the flu shot with no cost to patients.

Because the flu virus mutates rapidly, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of six months get a flu shot every year, especially people with chronic health problems. The virus can cause severe illness and complications resulting in hospitalization and sometimes death.

Up to 20 percent of Americans come down with the flu every year. By getting a flu shot early, before flu season strikes, the body has time to build immunity. It takes approximately two weeks for the body to produce enough antibodies to protect against the flu virus.