While you’re out redeeming those gift cards or stocking up on food, why not get a flu shot?

The H1N1 vaccine has become so widely available that many retailers, including pharmacies and supermarkets are offering it. In fact, the Wall Street Journal reports the swine-flu vaccine has become a valuable marketing tool for many retailers who are promoting it in hopes of attracting customers.

“Rite Aid Corp. is placing signs that read, ‘Protect Yourself: H1N1 Vaccinations Are Available,’ on the front doors of its drugstores and hanging similar banners inside. Kroger Co. is promoting its H1N1 flu shots on the cover of the grocery chain's weekly ad circulars.” Starting in 2010, Walgreen Co. plans to advertise its supply of the vaccine in television spots and on its Web site, the Journal reports. The large pharmacy chain says it will have vaccinations in 49 states by the end of the year. “Wal-Mart Stores Inc., which has walk-in clinics at some of its Supercenters, is offering inoculations in every state except Hawaii and Alaska, while CVS Caremark is offering them in 23 states and Rite Aid in 30 states. Safeway says it has obtained H1N1 vaccines for all its 1,730 stores in 17 states.”

The price of the dose? $10 to $18 to cover the administrative costs of providing the vaccine which the government gives to retailers for free.

Find a store near your shopping route for a happy and healthy New Year.

—Caroline Mayer, guest blogger