Walgreens to Offer More Than $10 Million Worth of Free Flu Shot Vouchers

DEERFIELD, Ill., November 30, 2011 - Walgreens (NYSE, NASDAQ: WAG) today announced it is offering more than $10 million worth of free flu shot vouchers to Americans without health insurance coverage for a flu shot and those unable to afford one without the voucher. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is assisting in the distribution of the vouchers in markets across the country.

Local public health officials, in conjunction with HHS regional health administrators, have already begun distributing the vouchers through a variety of community outreach efforts, including through many local health agencies and select community partner organizations. More than 300,000 vouchers are available to eligible U.S. residents.

Vouchers are good for one flu shot at any Walgreens pharmacy (excluding Puerto Rico), Duane Reade pharmacy in New York or Take Care Clinic, and are subject to the terms and conditions on the voucher.

“With the help and support of HHS, we’ve been able to provide free access to flu vaccine to people in need and improve immunization rates in underserved communities,” said Kermit Crawford, Walgreens president of pharmacy, health and wellness services and solutions. “Together, and with the ongoing dedication of our pharmacists, Take Care Clinic nurse practitioners and other immunizations-trained clinicians, we’re making an impact and helping to keep people healthy throughout the flu season.”

Kathleen Sebelius, HHS Secretary, said, “Last season, more than 40 percent of Americans got their flu shots but there are still millions of people who are without adequate insurance and unable to afford one. This generous donation is helping many people who otherwise might not be protected from influenza. HHS looks forward to working with local community pharmacies as we continue to reduce health disparities and make it possible for more individuals and families to get their annual flu vaccine.”

Vouchers are available on a first come, first-served basis while supplies last. State, age and other restrictions may apply. Consumers can contact their local health department for further information on voucher availability and distribution channels in their area.

Walgreens offers the greatest access to flu vaccine, with immunizations available daily at more than 7,700 locations, including all Walgreens pharmacies, Take Care Clinics and Duane Reade pharmacies in New York. Flu shots are available during all pharmacy and clinic hours with no appointment necessary.

About Walgreens

Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) is the nation's largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2011 sales of $72 billion. The company operates 7,786 drugstores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Each day, Walgreens provides nearly 6 million customers the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice in communities across America. Walgreens scope of pharmacy services includes retail, specialty, infusion, medical facility and mail service, along with respiratory services. These services improve health outcomes and lower costs for payers including employers, managed care organizations, health systems, pharmacy benefit managers and the public sector. Take Care Health Systems is a Walgreens subsidiary that is the largest and most comprehensive manager of worksite health and wellness centers and in-store convenient care clinics, with more than 700 locations throughout the country.

Walgreens
Jim Cohn, (847) 315-2950
http://news.walgreens.com