More Than 3,200 Rite Aid Pharmacies Offer Tdap Vaccinations as the Number of Confirmed Cases of Whooping Cough Climbs
As the number of confirmed cases of pertussis in the United States continues to climb, Rite Aid pharmacists are reminding people that the pertussis booster vaccine, Tdap, is available at more than 3,200 Rite Aid pharmacies nationwide. The cost of the Tdap booster vaccine is $71.99 and is covered by many insurance plans.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough because of the high-pitched "whooping" sound that occurs during inhalation after a severe coughing fit, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that may cause serious illness and in some cases, death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to protect against pertussis is immunization.
Since vaccine protection can decrease over time, the Tdap booster is recommended by the CDC for pre-teens, teens and adults. Tdap, which also guards against tetanus and diptheria, is also recommended for healthcare professionals, childcare providers, grandparents, pregnant women and family members with newborn infants.
Rite Aid pharmacists can administer the Tdap* booster at Rite Aid pharmacies in California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington and the District of Columbia.
For additional information on pertussis, including causes and transmission of the disease, symptoms, treatment options or to hear an example of the "cough," visit www.cdc.gov.
All Rite Aid pharmacists are to able to administer flu shots in addition to vaccinations for 16 other diseases, such as shingles and pneumonia, subject to state regulations. To learn more about Rite Aid's year-round immunization program, visit www.riteaid.com.
Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation's leading drugstore chains with approximately 4,700 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia and fiscal 2011 annual revenues of $25.2 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company's website at www.riteaid.com.
*Subject to state regulations.
Contacts:
Rite Aid Corporation
Ashley Flower, 717-975-5718
aflower@riteaid.com
