PLEASANTON, Calif. — Safeway here said that from this week through March 2010, or while supplies last, it will provide seasonal flu vaccines on a "walk-in" basis at most stores, and through scheduled flu vaccine clinics at others.
The cost of a vaccine administered at a Safeway pharmacy is far below the cost of a shot administered during a doctor office visit. according to chain officials.
Safeway is also providing an off-site flu clinic service in most states for businesses, senior centers and nursing homes that choose to provide their employees or residents with the convenience of receiving a flu vaccine where they work or live.
"We estimate nearly $100 million in savings to the health care system through our program alone," said David Fong, Safeway senior vice president of pharmacy, in a press statement.
In addition to providing seasonal flu vaccines, Safeway is working with state, local and federal health authorities to obtain a supply of the vaccine to combat against the H1N1 "Swine Flu" virus. The vaccine is expected to be available in the United States in late October.
Read More of Today's Headlines