OREANDA-NEWS. Walgreens offers vaccinations that provide protection against Meningitis B at all of its pharmacies throughout the Santa Clara area, as county health officials urge vaccination due to a number of reported Meningitis B cases. Vaccinations are available daily during regular pharmacy hours with no appointment necessary and may be covered by select insurance plans.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Meningitis spreads through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions. Meningitis primarily affects infants, adolescents and young adults. Teens and adults whose immunity has faded or living in close quarters, such as college dormitories, may also be at risk.

“We support the recommendations of local health officials and stress that vaccination is the best protection against Meningitis B,” said Hayley Park, Regional Healthcare Director for Walgreens. “Walgreens pharmacists play an important role by providing more convenient access to vaccinations and other preventive services throughout the community.”

Walgreens pharmacists in California can administer Meningitis B vaccine to qualified patients age 10 through 25 and other vaccinations to individuals ages 7 and older.