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"Kmart Pharmacy is dedicated to being your home for family health," says Robbert Ayshford, RPh, divisional vice president, Kmart Pharmacy. "Due to continuing concern over seasonal flu outbreaks this year Kmart wants to remind the community that Kmart Pharmacy is a great resource for keeping families healthy this winter."
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According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza, an infection of the nose, throat and lungs is a leading cause of death in the United States. Flu season begins in November and can last until May. The seasonal flu vaccine is highly effective in preventing seasonal flu, but because different strains of flu circulate every winter, the CDC recommends people are vaccinated annually.
This year, the rising threat of H1N1, also known as swine flu, has brought extra awareness to the need for people to be immunized, although the seasonal flu shot does not cover H1N1. While there is no H1N1 vaccination available yet, the CDC is expanding their outreach and awareness programs to include Twitter and Facebook this year to ensure that every population segment is fully informed about the importance of being vaccinated for seasonal flu.
"There is a lot of confusion out there among consumers about the differences between seasonal flu and H1N1," says Ayshford. "We encourage consumers to visit the Kmart Pharmacy nearest them and talk to a pharmacist face-to-face. They are happy to answer any questions you have about keeping your families healthy this winter."
The government recommends that people over the age of 50, pregnant women, those with chronic medical conditions and children older than six months be vaccinated annually for seasonal flu. It is also extremely important that the elderly and consumers with compromised immune system to get the seasonal flu vaccine.
In addition, it is important for consumers to practice everyday flu prevention. The flu is mainly spread person-to-person through coughing or sneezing. The CDC recommends that people take the following precautions to stay healthy during flu season:
Local Kmart Pharmacies compiled a handy checklist and have stocked up on more than 30 cold and flu essentials, including various sizes and formulations of hand sanitizers from such trusted brands as American Fare (in foaming, aloe and shea butter formulations, in addition to regular); GERMX (24 piece and 42-count wipes), FRESH'N UP (15-count antibacterial travel pack), Purell (original and aloe) and Persani. Also on the list are over-the-counter relievers from Mucinex, Alka-Seltzer Plus, American Fare and Pedialyte, plus Kleenex facial tissues, American Fare disinfecting wipes and Wet Ones.
Kmart Pharmacy has over 900 convenient locations that will be offering flu clinics, and Kmart pharmacists are also available to answer any questions you may have about the flu vaccine and how flu might affect your family. Visit www.kmart.com/pharmacy to find the Kmart Pharmacy nearest you.
About Kmart
Kmart, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq: SHLD), is a mass-merchandising company that offers customers quality products through a portfolio of exclusive brands that include Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, Martha Stewart Everyday and Route 66. Kmart Pharmacies operate nationwide, employing approximately 2,500 pharmacists, as well as 24/7 access on Kmart.com to give your family the best care. For more information, visit www.kmart.com/pharmacy.
-- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. -- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. -- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. -- Stay home if you get sick. CDC also recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
SOURCE Kmart
