H1N1 vaccine at retail pharmacies

H1N1 flu vaccine is finally arriving at local retailers, according to our Richmond newsroom the Richmond Times-Dispatch

A check of local pharmacies shows some have the nasal mist version of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine. The nasal version is recommended for people ages 2-49 in good health and who are not pregnant.

State health officials had announced earlier that they hoped to have H1N1 flu vaccine at retail locations by this week. Previously, the vaccine was primarily available at medical offices and health departments as officials tried to reach priority groups for vaccination.

A spot check of two retailers—a Walgreen’s on Williamson Road and the Target on Valley Viewer Boulevard—both have the H1N1 nasal spray vaccine.

According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, retailers cannot charge for the actual vaccine, which is being provided free by the government, but can charge for administering the vaccine. A clerk at Walgreen’s says the fee is $18 in cash. Some insurance plans are covering the vaccine.

The pharmacist at Target recommends people check with their insurance company before coming out to see if the vaccine is covered.

People also can get the vaccine for free at local health departments. Health officials have a 4 p.m. news briefing today to talk about flu vaccine availability.

Click here for H1N1 Vaccine Locations