BOISE, Idaho — Albertsons Cos. is highlighting no-appointment flu shots at its pharmacies in response to reports of heightened influenza activity in parts of the country.

The food and drug retailer said late Wednesday that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Flu Surveillance Report indicated local, regional and widespread flu activity in the United States, marking the start of the official flu season for American families.

Consumers can get the flu vaccine on a walk-in basis at any Albertsons Cos. pharmacy, which are located inside more than 1,700 supermarkets across 35 states under the banners Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, and Carrs.

Customers administered an immunization at an Albertsons Cos. pharmacy also will receive a coupon for 10% off a grocery purchase, where permitted by law.

“During this time of year, we want families to enjoy their gatherings together and not suffer unnecessarily from something like the flu,” Mark Panzer, senior vice president of pharmacy, health and wellness at Albertsons Cos., said in a statement.. “This is why all members of our pharmacy teams are trained and ready to help provide the flu vaccine to anyone who wants it.”

Albertsons noted that the CDC recommends an annual flu shot for everyone age 6 months and older and to get vaccinated as soon as possible, since it takes about two weeks after receiving the shot for a person to be protected.