Flu activity increasing in Virginia

The flu season has not reached its peak, but already flu activity is increasing in Virginia, according to the State Health Commissioner.

Dr. Marissa Levine, State Health Commissioner, said Virginia is reporting sporadic flu activity.  Dr. Levine recommends flu shots to individuals six months of age and older.

“It’s never too late to get your flu shot,” said Michelle Fountain, Pharmacy coordinator for Kroger in Virginia.  “Even if you already have been exposed, the flu will not be as severe as it would have been had you not received the vaccine.”

The peak season generally is the cold weather months of January and February, but the season actually runs until May, said Fountain.

Kroger is donating one meal to Feeding America food banks across the nation for each flu shot that is administered.

Kroger has 65 pharmacies in Virginia, with convenient locations in the metro areas of Hampton Roads, Richmond, Roanoke Valley and many smaller cities in western Virginia.  The pharmacies are open every day, usually until 9 p.m.  The shots are administered by certified pharmacists.  No appointment is necessary.  Most insurance plans cover the cost of the flu shot, and Kroger accepts Medicare.

Kroger offers Fluzone HD for patients 65 and older.  Fluzone HD offers better protection against flu for seniors since because it contains four times more antigens than the regular flu vaccine, said Fountain.

For the location of the Kroger pharmacy nearest you, visit www.kroger.com.