MDA Joins Walgreens to Offer Flu Shots to People the Association Serves

TUCSON, Ariz. Oct.10, 2008 — Continuing a service it has provided for decades, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) again is offering flu shots to people who have any of the more than 40 diseases it covers. To assist individuals in obtaining vaccinations this flu season, the Association teamed up with Walgreens to offer shots at thousands of Walgreens locations across the country through a voucher program.

Muscular dystrophy and related diseases, especially those that progress in severity, can damage muscles involved with breathing. Catching the flu is particularly hazardous for those with muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Valerie Cwik, MDA medical director and senior vice president of Research, said, “Both adults and children with these diseases already may have weakened respiratory systems. MDA provides flu shots to reduce their likelihood of catching yet another life-threatening illness.”

Individuals can find their nearest Walgreens flu clinic location by visiting Walgreens.com/flu or calling 800-FLU-9950 (800-358-9950). Shots also may be obtained at many of the 225 clinics in MDA’s nationwide network.

For information about obtaining a flu shot or securing a flu shot voucher, contact MDA by calling (800) 572-1717, or visit the MDA Web site at www.mda.org.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, advocacy, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

The Association’s programs are funded almost entirely by individual private contributors.