Meijer’s pharmacies to administer COVID-19 vaccine throughout Michigan

Meijer announced that it has been chosen by the state of Michigan as an initial pharmacy partner in administering the COVID-19 vaccine.

The retailer will directly receive and administer doses of the COVID-19 vaccine under the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership Program. The first doses will be given to a limited number of stores in Wayne County to those ages 65 years old and older beginning Jan. 18.

“Our stores and pharmacies have played a very important role in supporting their communities during this difficult time,” Meijer president and CEO, Rick Keyes said. “We are proud to be chosen by the State of Michigan as a partner to help administer these critical vaccines and we look forward to our expanded role in helping communities throughout the Midwest defeat this pandemic.”

For those interested and eligible in obtaining the vaccine, the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer will be rolling out a text-based registration process.

Interested parties simply need to text COVID to the number 75049, and a link to register for the vaccine will be sent. Those who also wish to do the process online can do so via Meijer’s clinic website.

A brief three questionnaire will be sent, in order for the retailer’s pharmacies to determine which vaccine phase the patient is currently in, the company said.

“The State of Michigan is proud to partner with Meijer to help distribute the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine to Michiganders across the state,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “One of the most important things all Michiganders can do right now is to make a plan to get the vaccine when it becomes available to you. Remember, it will take some time to distribute the vaccine to all Michiganders, so please be patient. And until we end the pandemic once and for all, remember to mask up, practice safe social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings where the virus can spread easily from person to person. We will get through this together.”