COVID-19 has definitely brought about a lot of changes in our favorite stores, including Walmart, which at one point turned some of its huge parking lots into drive-in theaters. Now, as the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out, Walmart and Sam’s Club announced another major move. Starting on Friday, February 12, locations in 22 states around the country will be taking appointments at the stores’ pharmacies for anyone who can receive the vaccine under their state’s guidelines.
Is My State on the List?
The vaccine should be available in the following states as soon as allocations are made by the federal government:
- Alaska
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Wyoming
This rollout is part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, which aims to expand and increase COVID-19 vaccination rates across the country by connecting pharmacies with the federal government.
According to Walmart, it aims to bring the vaccinations primarily to underserved communities that may otherwise find it hard to access healthcare. Dr. Cheryl Pegus, Walmart’s executive vice president of Health and Wellness, says, “Ninety percent of the country lives within 10 miles of a Walmart. We’re at the heart of many rural and underserved communities, and we are committed to providing access to vaccines as groups become eligible.”
How Can I Get a Vaccine?
First, check your state’s Department of Health website to determine if you’re eligible for the vaccine. Then, set up an appointment using the scheduler for Walmart or Sam’s Club. It’s that simple! Keep in mind that it could take the vaccine weeks or months to reach a store near you and may not be distributed by Walmart in your state. The FDA-authorized vaccines are provided to the pharmacies by the federal government and are available free of cost.
In case you missed it, we’ve got more news when it comes to pandemic-related changes—Costco’s free samples have returned to its aisles, and certain grocery stores have decided to update their salad bars in interesting ways.
The post Walmart and Sam’s Club Will Administer the COVID-19 Vaccine in 22 States appeared first on Taste of Home.
Amrita Thakkar