CVS Offers Same-Day Vaccine Appointments, Follows Walgreens

ILLINOIS — CVS Health has joined the growing list of pharmacies to allow walk-in COVID-19 vaccinations. Walgreens, Walmart and Sam's Club are also guaranteeing a same-day appointment to anyone who qualifies.

Walgreens announced on Wednesday they would offer walk-ins at more than 500 stores in Illinois. CVS has availability for same-day appointments at 300 stores, and Walmart and Sam's Club are offering walk-ins at all 175 of their pharmacies in the state.

While there remain barriers to getting vaccinated, retail chains are attempting to mitigate lack of time and public transit with mobile vaccination centers. People who wish to get vaccinated at Sam's Club do not have to have a membership, and people are still welcome to schedule appointments at all four chains.

The same-day vaccination guarantee depends on supply, and Walgreens officials said it is still best to call your local store ahead of time to make sure they have enough.

Mariano's spokeswoman Amanda Puck said the grocery chain expects to begin offering walk-in appointments in the next week or two. Mariano's has 40 pharmacy locations in Illinois and continues to see high demand for vaccination appointments, Puck said.

In a press conference Thursday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said mass vaccination sites will not wind down appointments or supply.