As new state legislation has taken effect to help bring greater patient access to vaccines, Walgreens (NYSE: WAG) (Nasdaq: WAG) has expanded vaccine availability at all of its more than 800 locations across Florida. Pharmacists are now authorized to provide Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended meningococcal (meningitis) vaccines for patients 18 years and older, and zoster (shingles) vaccines for patients 60 years and older,1 in addition to influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations available to eligible patients age 18 and older.

Vaccinations are available daily during all pharmacy hours with no appointment necessary.

“As some of the most trusted health care professionals in communities across Florida, this is an excellent opportunity for our pharmacists to help educate residents about the importance of adult vaccinations and to improve immunization rates through greater access,” said Terry Gubbins, Florida market pharmacy director for Walgreens. “We’ve demonstrated through flu seasons and other health initiatives the important role Walgreens is playing in health care today, providing high quality, affordable care to help more people get, stay and live well.”

Vaccines are subject to availability. Age, state and health related restrictions may apply. Many immunizations may be covered by commercial insurance plans, Medicare Part B or Medicare Part D. Patients are encouraged to check with their health plan for specific coverage details. To find the nearest Walgreens, residents can call 1-800-WALGREENS or visit www.walgreens.com.

About Walgreens

As the nation's largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2013 sales of $72 billion, Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) vision is to be the first choice in health and daily living for everyone in America, and beyond. Each day, in communities across America, more than 8 million customers interact with Walgreens using the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice. Walgreens scope of pharmacy services includes retail, specialty, infusion, medical facility and mail service, along with online and mobile 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. The company operates 8,217 drugstores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Walgreens digital business includes Walgreens.com, drugstore.com, Beauty.com, SkinStore.com and VisionDirect.com. Take Care Health Systems is a Walgreens subsidiary that manages more than 400 in-store convenient care clinics throughout the country.

1 Zoster vaccination available to patients 50-59 years with prescription