The following is a news release from The United Family:
A new and more effective herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine, Shingrix®, is now available in all United Supermarkets, Market Street, Albertsons Market and Amigos pharmacies across Texas.
“1 in 3 people will get shingles in their lifetime,” said Tim Purser, director of pharmacy for The United Family. “So it is recommended that anyone 50 and older, regardless of prior Zostavax® vaccination, receive Shingrix® to prevent getting shingles. We’re happy to add this to our ever-growing list of available vaccinations for our guests.”
Shingrix® was recently approved by the FDA and released to the public as a more effective vaccine for shingles, which is a reactivation of the chicken pox that shows up as a painful skin rash. Shingrix® is over 93% effective, compared to its predecessor Zostavax®, which was considered only 65% effective. It is also recommended for a wider range of adults, beginning at age 50, rather than Zostavax®, which was only recommended for those 60 and older.
Some people may be advised to wait up to 5 years after getting Zostavax® to get Shingrix®. The vaccine is especially important because as people age, their immune system weakens, leaving them more susceptible to shingles. Even healthy, active people can get shingles.
Those ages 50 and up are asked to speak with their pharmacist or healthcare professional about this vaccine.
About The United Family®
In its 101st year of operation, United Supermarkets, LLC – d.b.a. The United Family® – is a Texas-based grocery chain with stores in 49 communities in Texas and New Mexico. A self-distributing company with headquarters and their newly-expanded distribution center in Lubbock, The United Family currently operates 92 stores under five unique banners: United Supermarkets, Market Street, Amigos, Albertsons Market and United Express, along with ancillary operations R.C. Taylor Distributing, Praters and Llano Logistics. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Albertson’s LLC. For more information, please visit www.unitedtexas.com.
(News release from The United Family)
