Pfizer and BioNTech SE have asked the Food and Drug Administration to relax requirements for their COVID-19 vaccine to be stored at ultra-low temperatures, potentially allowing for it to be kept in pharmacy freezers.
The retailer is partnering with the YMCA, Lyft, clinics and faith-based organizations to increase access to COVID-19 vaccinations for vulnerable communities.
The company now has provided more than 3 million COVID-19 vaccinations across long-term care facilities and additional vulnerable populations within various states and local jurisdictions.
The National Community Pharmacists Association said more COVID-19 vaccine supply is needed by local pharmacies to accelerate the rate of vaccine administration.
The federal government is increasing its vaccine supply to 13.5 million doses per week, and pharmacies will be receiving 2 million doses per week, according to White House press secretary Jen Psaki.
As it expands COVID-19 testing to 441 additional stores, Rite Aid also is kicking off its participation in the federal pharmacy program, offering COVID-19 vaccines in five states and two jurisdictions with direct federal allocations.
