Frugal Family: Flu Shots with Freebies

We're all watching our family budgets these days. Whether shopping with coupons or looking for two-for-one deals, we're taking advantage of all sorts of offers and savings that help us stretch our dollars.

This column is dedicated to giving you five great local deals each week that will help your family's bottom line, and since we do the scouting for you, you can save time as well as money.

It’s time to get a flu shot, and this year retailers are offering incentives for receiving one at their store. Check out the perks of having a flu shot (in addition to staying healthy) at the following pharmacies, grocers and stores:

Rite-Aid Pharmacies: Cost without insurance: $27.99. Incentive: Coupon book worth $100. For more information visit http://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/.

Kroger Stores: Cost without insuranc: $25. Incentive: Receive 50 gas points, no points available with Medicare or Medicaid plans. For more information visit www.thelittleclinic.com.

Walgreens Pharmacies: Cost without insurance: $31.99. Incentive: $3 register reward at participating stores. For more information visit www.walgreens.com/flu. Appointments are available upon request; walk-ins are welcome.

Target Stores: Cost without insurance: $24.99. Incentive: $5 store coupon. For more information visit target.com.

2535 Dallas Hwy SW, Marietta, 30064. 770-427-4136. Flu Shot Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

CVS Pharmacies: Cost without insurance: $29.99. Incentive: $5 store coupon if no insurance co-pay.  For more information visit www.minuteclinic.com/flu/.

This year’s flu shot cocktail provides protection against three strains including H1N1, H3N2 and Influenza B.  These are the same strains that were in the 2010-2011 vaccine.

The 2011 annual influenza vaccination is recommended for the following groups:

• All persons who want to reduce the risk of becoming ill with influenza or of transmitting influenza to others;
• All children from 6 months through 18 years of age;
• Anyone 6 months of age and older with certain chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma, heart disease, compromised immune system) or with a condition that can compromise respiratory function;
• Pregnant women;
• People who live with, care for or come into close contact with persons at risk, including children younger than 6 months of age and individuals with chronic medical conditions or compromised immunity;
• People 50 years of age and older; and
• Health-care professional.

It only takes a minute to get a flu shot and get a freebie. Staying healthy this season is priceless.