What is COVID-19?
COVID-19, a disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, is a highly contagious illness that’s transmitted through respiratory droplets or small particles, such as those produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or breathes. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell and more. To best protect yourself, wear your mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet apart, avoid crowds and receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
Should I be tested for COVID-19?
If you have symptoms, have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or believe you have previously been infected with COVID-19, you should consider getting tested. We offer multiple types of COVID-19 tests – such as the PCR and rapid antibody tests – which can confirm if you are currently infected with the virus or have developed antibodies from a previous infection. If you believe you are infected, you should self-quarantine until you receive your COVID-19 test results.
Is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
We have vaccination and testing solutions you can trust. Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are safe, effective and have undergone large clinical trials. The FDA, CDC and ACIP have not declared preference for one vaccine over another. Our pharmacies are trained and ready to administer doses in accordance with jurisdiction-defined eligibility. Check if the vaccine is available in your area.
How do COVID-19 vaccines work?
Simply put: the COVID vaccine helps our bodies develop an immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19. When germs attack the body, our immune system uses several tools to fight back, including creating T-lymphocytes (“memory” cells), which quickly take action if the body encounters the same virus again; and B-lymphocytes, which make antibodies when the familiar antigens are detected. The COVID-19 vaccine supplies your body with “memory” cells that remember how to fight the infection – a safer and preferable choice to getting sick.
What are the COVID-19 vaccine side effects?
Though the COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you, you may experience side effects. These symptoms are normal signs that your body is building protection and may include pain and swelling in your arm, as well as fever, chills, tiredness and/or headache. Side effects should go away in a few days. If you have pain or discomfort, talk to your healthcare provider about over-the-counter health and wellness solutions.
What are the benefits of getting vaccinated?
The vaccine is a safer way to help build immunity protection against COVID-19 and is an important tool in stopping the pandemic.
Who is eligible for COVID vaccine?
Our pharmacies will administer the COVID vaccine in accordance with jurisdiction-defined eligibility. For your jurisdiction’s plan and information about availability in your area, review our COVID-19 vaccine updates. When eligible, schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment online with your local family of pharmacies.
During this unprecedented time, the health and safety of our customers and associates has been our top priority. Whether through providing groceries, healthy living inspiration, pharmacy services, vaccinations or all of the above, we’re here to support your health every step of the way. Please continue to practice safe grocery shopping habits, continue to wear your mask, practice physical distancing and wash your hands frequently.
