Walgreens currently offers the FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 season, primarily to adults aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain health conditions that increase their risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The vaccine targets the most common circulating variant. Walk-in or scheduled appointments are available online, and patients may also receive other vaccines alongside the COVID-19 shot. Availability varies by state, with some requiring prescriptions due to state regulations. Walgreens aims to provide safe and convenient access to COVID-19 vaccines and reports that many insurance plans and government programs cover the cost of vaccination. Common mild side effects include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and chills, with serious reactions being rare. Key states where Walgreens offers the vaccine without prescription include most U.S. states such as Alabama, California, Illinois, New York, Texas, and Washington, among others. States like Arizona, Georgia, Louisiana, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah, and Washington D.C. require a prescription to receive the vaccine at Walgreens. Walgreens also provides other immunization services including flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal vaccinations, and more. Scheduling can be done online via Walgreens.com or the Walgreens app, by phone, or in person.
