Rite Aid Statement on CDC Recommendation Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine “Boosters”

Rhea-AI Summary

The CDC has officially recommended third doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for eligible populations, including those aged 65 and older, and individuals aged 18-64 with certain medical conditions. Rite Aid (RAD) is set to administer these booster shots immediately, regardless of where customers received their primary vaccinations. This initiative aligns with the CDC’s guidance, aiming to enhance protection for the most vulnerable. Rite Aid encourages all eligible individuals to either walk in or schedule appointments for vaccinations, which also include flu shots and other vaccines.

Positive

• Rite Aid is positioned to administer COVID-19 booster shots immediately, enhancing its service offerings.
• The company is actively involved in vaccination efforts, potentially driving foot traffic and increasing customer loyalty.

Negative

• Boosters are currently only recommended for those who received the Pfizer vaccine, limiting the potential customer base for Rite Aid.

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concurred with previous recommendations made by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), officially recommending “booster” doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for certain eligible populations at least 6 months after the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

As a proud partner in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, Rite Aid is prepared to begin administering third-dose “boosters” of the Pfizer vaccine starting immediately, in line with the CDC’s guidance. Customers may receive their booster dose at Rite Aid regardless of where they received their primary series.

Rite Aid has been on the front lines of the pandemic since the beginning, offering COVID-19 testing and administering vaccinations to keep our communities healthy and thriving. Pharmacists are prepared to administer third doses in an effort to further protect the most vulnerable populations.

At this time, additional doses are recommended only for:

• People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings
• People aged 18-64 years with underlying medical conditions
• People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting

Currently, boosters are only recommended for those who received the Pfizer vaccine for their primary series. The CDC is continuing to evaluate available data in the coming weeks to make recommendations for those who initially received the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.

Eligible customers may walk in immediately, or schedule an appointment at https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/scheduler beginning Saturday, September 25, to receive a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine. Flu and other vaccines are also available in-store and can be scheduled via the online scheduling tool.

Rite Aid encourages those who still have not received their primary series to do so. Please visit our website, www.riteaid.com/covid-19, for timely, accurate information on COVID-19 vaccines and testing in each community we serve.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210924005489/en/

MEDIA:

Brad Ducey

717-975-5718

Bradley.Ducey@riteaid.com

Source: Rite Aid Corporation

FAQ

What is Rite Aid's (RAD) role in COVID-19 vaccinations?

Rite Aid is administering third doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as recommended by the CDC.

When can customers receive their COVID-19 booster at Rite Aid?

Customers can start receiving their COVID-19 booster doses immediately.

Who is eligible for the COVID-19 booster shot at Rite Aid?

Eligible individuals include those aged 65 and older, and individuals aged 18-64 with underlying medical conditions.

How can customers schedule a COVID-19 vaccination at Rite Aid?

Customers can walk in or schedule an appointment via the Rite Aid website.

Is Rite Aid offering other vaccines along with the COVID-19 booster?

Yes, Rite Aid is also offering flu and other vaccines in-store.