The Giant Company has announced that flu and pneumonia vaccinations are now available at all Giant and Martin's pharmacies.

Walk-ins are welcome, but customers can also make an appointment if they prefer. Most insurance plans cover flu shots at $0 copays, including Medicare Part B.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get a flu vaccination annually, ideally by October. Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious complications from flu, including people with diabetes, pregnant women, adults over 65, those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases, those with kidney and liver disorders, heart disease patients and those with compromised immune systems.

Giant and Martin's pharmacies also offer pneumococcal vaccinations, which can be administered at the same time as a flu shot. The CDC recommends the pneumococcal vaccination for all children younger than 5 years old and all adults age 50 years or older. It is also recommended for both children and adults with certain risk conditions.

Immunizations are administered by immunizing Giant and Martin's pharmacists and specially trained pharmacy team members, subject to state regulations. To find the nearest Giant or Martin's pharmacy, visit http://www.giantfoodstores.com or http://www.martinsfoods.com or download the free Giant or Martin's Pharmacy app.