Publix, United to Offer Flu Shots

Publix Super Markets Inc. and United Supermarkets LLC will both shortly roll out flu immunization programs, Publix this month and United starting Sept. 1.

All 823 Publix Pharmacy locations will offer the shots, which will be administered by either trained Publix pharmacists or The Little Clinic locations.

“Flu clinics are an extension of the services our pharmacies provide to our customers as a convenient and affordable way to receive their vaccinations,” said Maria Brous, director of media and community relations, at the privately owned and operated Lakeland, Fla.-based grocer, which operates 1,022 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee. “At Publix, our pharmacies are dedicated to building relationships with our customers and their families for total health and wellness all year long.”

The shots will cost $25. Medicare Part B and many other insurance plans will be accepted, although restrictions apply and vary based on state laws. For a detailed listing of store locations, dates and times, customers can visit www.publix.com/flu or call 1-877-FLU-8100.

Down in Texas, meanwhile, the pharmacy teams at United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos United at all 43 of the company’s stores are gearing up to give flu vaccinations. Many locations also will offer FluMist, a nasal vaccine indicated for people between the ages of 2 and 49. United pharmacies under all three banners will file Medicare claims on behalf of Medicare Part B-eligible shoppers. This year’s flu shot and FluMist will include vaccination for the well-publicized H1N1 (so-called "swine flu") strain. Shoppers can visit www.unitedtexas.com/pharmacy/ for more details.

“Without question, the best way to prevent the flu is to get a seasonal flu vaccine,” noted Tim Purser, business director of pharmacy for Lubbock-based United, which operates 50 stores under its three distinct banners.