CVS to give free flu shots to people lacking health insurance

Woonsocket, R.I. CVS Caremark Corp. said Wednesday it will give away up to $5 million in seasonal flu vaccinations to people without health insurance.

The chain said vouchers for the vaccines will be available at clinics or community health centers starting Sept. 20. Consumers will be able to redeem the vouchers at any of CVS' 7,100 locations and its retail MinuteClinics. The names of the participating clinics will be announced Sept. 20.

CVS said it is working with Direct Relief USA, a nonprofit organization, to give out the shots.

CVS, Walgreen Co., and Rite Aid Corp. each started selling flu shots in mid-August, which is significantly earlier than in past years.