Walgreens announced that free N95 masks will be distributed in their stores, as pharmacies across the country stock up for the general public after the Biden administration announced it would be giving out 400 million masks from its Strategic National Stockpile.
Here’s how to get them at Walgreens.
Locate your nearest pharmacy
The CDC has a list of participating pharmacies in the Federal Pharmacy Retail Program, initially set up for the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, that will be giving out masks.
There are currently 15 stores in New Jersey that have received masks, according to the most up-to-date list of Walgreens pharmacy locations with masks in stock.
But that is likely to change, as the pharmacy chain said in a statement it expects to continue to distribute masks in the weeks to come, so it is very likely that the number of stores with free N95 masks will continue to grow.
Follow the posted signs inside the store
Walgreens said in a statement that stores with masks in stocks will have signs indicating availability. Individuals can receive up to three masks.
Can you get more than 3 masks?
As of now, there are only three free N95 masks being distributed per person.
If you want more than three, you’ll need to buy them. Several merchants specialize in NIOSH-certified N95 mask sales, as well as KN95 masks and KF94 masks, with reasonably fast shipping.
Here are just a few places:
(Note: Amazon does have N95, KN95 and KF94 masks for sale, but be careful about buying counterfeit ones if you choose to shop there.)
Related stories about masks and COVID-19:
Where to buy N95, KN95, KF94 masks (and how to get some for free)
How to get free N95 masks at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid and other stores
How to get a COVID booster shot at CVS, Walgreens or Rite Aid
The omicron variant symptoms to look out for if you are fully vaccinated
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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.