CSA'S News You Can Use: Have You Gotten Your Shingles Shot?
Thursday, July 21, 2011
(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)DC area union members and
their older dependents can save themselves from what most sufferers call
"excruciating" pain and possible vision damage by getting vaccinated against
shingles. Many union health plans cover the cost of the shot and CVS and
Safeway Pharmacies can give the shot without a prescription from a doctor, if
the eligible adult has proof of age. National Writers Union member Carolyn
Jacobson, who focuses on health issues at the Coalition of Labor Union Women
(CLUW), recommends that union members and retirees over 60 check with their
health plans to see if the vaccine, called Zostavax, is covered under adult
vaccinations. In many states, pharmacists can give the shot without a doctor's
prescription, if you have proof of age. We know that's the case in MD and that
many CVS, Safeway and RiteAid Pharmacies in MD are giving the shot, if they have
it. It's best, however, to call in advance.
- Kathleen McKirchy, Community
Service Agency