Giant Food restarts in-store vaccinations at pharmacies

Giant Food has announced that all vaccinations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, are now once again available at its 153 in-store pharmacies.

The service previously stopped being provided due to the hiatus of all non-essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations that will be available include those providing protection against pneumonia, shingles, tetanus, hepatitis, human papillomavirus and influenza, the Landover, M.D.-based retailer said.

All vaccinations will be administered by its certified in-store pharmacists and will require no advanced appointment.

“Now it is more critical than ever for individuals to take preventative measures to protect themselves and their communities from sickness and staying up-to-date with recommended vaccines is an important first step,” Paul Zvaleny, Giant Food's director of pharmacy operations said. “After pausing non-urgent services in April, we are looking forward to offering vaccinations to our customers and continuing to do our part to keep our communities healthy while following social distancing guidelines and strict safety procedures.”

Implemented additional health and safety policies in effect when vaccinations are being administered include maintaining social distancing measures, equipping associates with personal protective equipment, increasing disinfection procedures between vaccine administrations and following additional screening processes for patients.

In addition, Giant pharmacists will continue offering free consultations to help patients prevent and combat allergies, the company said.