Ten BI–LO pharmacies in the Columbia–area are offering discounted flu vaccinations to customers who present their My BI–LO BONUSCARD®. This year’s vaccine protects against three common strains of the virus but not the recently discovered H1N1 virus. While this flu season is predicted to be normal, heightened sensitivities towards various flu strains have led to predictions of a higher demand for vaccinations by consumers. BI–LO pharmacies are prepared to meet this need.

Flu vaccinations will be available for $30 ($27 with customers’ My BI–LO BONUSCARD®) and the BI–LO neighborhood pharmacist will be on hand to answer any related questions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly encourages children under the age of five, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health problems to get immunized.

During the normal flu season, supplies of vaccines may be delayed or limited, therefore BI–LO pharmacists recommend the following tips to members of the community to stay healthy this season and reduce their risk of infection:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.

• Use an alcohol– based hand cleaner if soap and water are not available.

• Make plans to care for sick household members or for children if schools dismiss students or childcare programs close.

• Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home. Have the following items on hand: a supply of fever–reducing medicines that contain acetaminophen or ibu-profen, alcohol–based hand cleaners, tissues and other items that may be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick.

The local BI–LO stores offering the vaccinations are Columbia: 7830 Garners Ferry Rd. on 10/5 from 2 pm – 6 pm & 10/30 from 10 am – 2 pm; 4464 Devine St. on 10/9 from 10 am – 2 pm & 11/6 from 2 pm – 6 pm; 6021 St. Andrews Rd. on 10/19 from 10 am – 2 pm & 11/3 from 10 am – 2 pm; 120 Forum Dr. on 10/3 from 10 am – 2 pm & 10/30 from 10 am – 2 pm. West Columbia: 2349 Augusta Rd. on 10/8 from 10 am – 2 pm & 10/16 from 2 pm – 6 pm. Cayce: 2453 Charleston Hwy. on 10/5 from 10 am – 2 pm & 10/29 from 10 am – 2 pm; 300 Knox Abbott Dr. on 10/13 from 10 am – 2 pm & 11/4 from 10 am – 2 pm. Chapin: 1419 Chapin Rd. on 10/7 from 10 am – 2 pm, 10/22 from 2 pm – 6 pm & 11/13 from 10 am – 2 pm. Irmo: 200 Friarsgate Plaza on 10/8 from 10 am – 2 pm & 10/26 from 10 am – 2 pm.

“BI–LO is dedicated to providing great care and consultation to our customers who wish to be vaccinated against the flu this season,” said Curtis Hartin, senior director of pharmacy for BI–LO. “Each year between five and 20 percent of the population will develop influenza, and with growing concerns about the outcome of this flu season, it’s important now more than ever to stay protected with this year’s vaccine.”