Rite Aid assures patients it still has shingles vaccine in stock

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Responding to reports of a shingles vaccine shortage, Rite Aid is assuring customers that nearly 1,900 of its pharmacies have an ample supply.

Rite Aid noted that it can provide vaccinations against the nerve disease in 27-of-the-31 states where its stores are located, and in most of the states where Rite Aid operates, pharmacists can administer the vaccine to walk-in patients ages 60 years and older.

The company also reminded patients to call their local Rite Aid to see if appointments are necessary, as well as for the cost of the vaccination, which varies with insurance coverage. Nearly all insurance, including Medicare Part D plans, will cover at least some of the cost, Rite Aid said.

The drug store chain has vaccinated thousands of patients against shingles since 2007, and launched a nationwide awareness campaign last January.

In related news, supermarket retailer Supervalu also addressed the shingles vaccine shortage, stating that the company also had an ample supply of the vaccine on hand.