Credit: GIANT.
In advance of the holidays, GIANT and MARTIN’S pharmacists are reminding customers it’s not too late to help fight the flu by getting their annual flu vaccination. It takes about two weeks after vaccination to develop the antibodies that provide protection against the flu, which typically peaks between December and March each year.
“As our customers get ready to celebrate the holiday season, we want to make sure the only thing being spread is cheer,” said Nick Koch, director of pharmacy and wellbeing, The GIANT Company. “With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, now is the time to get ahead of any possible uptick in flu activity. Get your flu shot while you’re doing your grocery shopping - no appointment needed. Our team of more than 300 pharmacists are standing by to help you cross your flu shot off your to do list.
With more than 130 locations across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, receiving a flu shot at GIANT and MARTIN’S pharmacies is easy and convenient. Walk-ins are welcome but customers can also make an appointment if they prefer. Most insurance plans cover flu shots at $0 copays, including Medicare Part B. In addition, customers who get a flu shot will receive a $5 off your next grocery purchase of $25 or more.
In addition, GIANT and MARTIN’S offer a variety of health resources and pharmacy services to keep communities healthy year-round, like prescription reminders and automatic refills, diagnostic testing, and pre-travel health consultations. In addition, GIANT and MARTIN’S is bringing services to workplaces and local neighborhoods with its wellbeing van. To learn more about available on-site and virtual services, visit the Wellbeing Workplace hub online.
Immunizations are administered by immunizing GIANT and MARTIN’S pharmacists and specially trained pharmacy team members, subject to state regulations. To find the nearest GIANT or MARTIN’S pharmacy, visit or download the free GIANT or MARTIN’S Pharmacy App.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccination annually. Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious complications from flu including people with diabetes, pregnant women, adults over 65, those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases, those with kidney and liver disorders, heart disease patients and those with compromised immune systems.
COVID-19 vaccines are also available at all GIANT and MARTIN’S pharmacies. The vaccines are available for customers 12 years and older and may be available upon request for those 5 – 11 years of age, subject to state regulations. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given together.
