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Meijer expands vaccine offerings ahead of fall respiratory illness season

 
Meijer expands vaccine offerings ahead of fall respiratory illness season
Ray Hancart, Vice President of Communications & Community Engagement | LinkedIn

As autumn approaches, Meijer Pharmacy is expanding its efforts to provide essential vaccines to Midwest communities, with a focus on the seasonal influenza vaccine. The company has announced that its pharmacists are available for both scheduled and walk-in appointments during regular pharmacy hours to help customers navigate their vaccine needs.

"We understand our customers want clarity and confidence when it comes to their health decisions," said Jackie Morse, Group Vice President of Pharmacy and Health at Meijer. "Our pharmacists are seasoned professionals, equipped with the latest guidance and committed to helping everyone stay protected."

Meijer is highlighting the importance of the flu vaccine as a primary defense against respiratory illnesses this season. The updated flu shot is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older to help prevent the spread of influenza.

The retailer is also responding to recent updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by offering pneumococcal (pneumonia) and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccines to a broader population. Eligibility for both vaccines has been lowered to age 50, increasing access for adults who may benefit from added protection. Adults starting at age 50 are now recommended for the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against pneumonia and serious infections that can be particularly harmful during fall and winter. For RSV, adults ages 75 and older are advised to receive protection, while those ages 50-74 with risk factors for severe RSV are also eligible.

With these expanded recommendations, more people qualify for key respiratory vaccines—including flu, pneumonia, RSV, and COVID-19 when available—making vaccination especially important this year.

"As the one-stop shop for health and wellness, Meijer is where you can find not only the vaccines you need, but also the guidance and support our customers are looking for," Morse added. "We invite everyone to talk with our pharmacists about eligibility, to help keep themselves and their loved ones healthy this season."

Customers who receive a vaccination at Meijer will earn 500 mPerks points, which can be converted into rewards.

Appointments can be made through the Meijer Pharmacy website or by texting "vaccine" to 75049. Walk-ins are also accepted at local Meijer Pharmacy locations.

Meijer operates more than 500 retail locations across the Midwest. Additional information about Meijer can be found at https://newsroom.meijer.com/.