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Nov 17, 2009 6:58 pm US/Central
Grocers & Drug Chains To Distribute H1N1 Vaccine
DALLAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
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Justin Sullivan /Getty Images
On Tuesday, Dallas County outlined its plans to make sure at least four supermarkets and drug store chains will have the H1N1 vaccine to distribute to its customers.
A number of stores will offer the H1N1 vaccine beginning Wednesday, but the CVS drug store chain is noticeably absent. Dallas County health officials say CVS was offered doses, but declined to take any at this time.
Beginning Wednesday, Kroger, Wal-Mart, Walgreen's, Tom Thumb and an independent pharmacy called Dougherty's will administer the vaccine to at-risk people, both insured and uninsured.
"Yeah, there is some frustration. I wish it was readily available to everyone," said Dallas Pharmacist Ralph Liston.
Dallas County Health and Human Services is partnering with the stores and has instructed store executives to only give the vaccine to those who meet the CDC's criteria for being at risk of getting seriously ill from the influenza.
Each store is charging an administrative fee that ranges from $10-$20. Some stores are requiring an appointment, while others are taking walk-ins.
"Dallas County residents should not be left out or prevented from getting the H1N1 vaccine, whether they're insured or uninsured," said Dallas County Health and Human Services Director Zachary Thompson.
"We are urging everyone in Dallas County who has the vaccines, including our pharmacy partners now, to do what's right and make sure you're giving out the vaccine to priority groups," urged Dallas County Health Director Dr. John Carlo.
The high-risk groups include pregnant women, people six months to 24 years old, those who care for children under six months of age, persons ages 25 to 64 with an underlying medical condition, health care workers and emergency medical personnel.
Dallas County Health and Human Services will also be conducting two clinics for at-risk individuals, both insured and uninsured. Those qualifying will need to make an appointment by calling (214) 819-6001.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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