HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Kmart has begun providing seasonal flu vaccinations through walk-in flu clinics, and members of its pharmacy savings program are being offered a discount.

The discount store chain, part of Sears Holding Corp., said Friday that flu shots are now available without an appointment for $24.99 at its 900-plus Kmart Pharmacies nationwide. Members of the Kmart Pharmacy Prescription Savings Club pay just $20 for the flu vaccine.

In addition, Kmart’s pharmacies are offering the high-dose flu shot, which is indicated for people age 65 and older.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu shot for everyone age 6 months and older. Kmart noted that in 2012 each location of its pharmacy locations across the country will have an immunizing pharmacist certified by the American Pharmacists Association and authorized by the state board of pharmacy to administer vaccines to customers age 3 and older.

"Kmart Pharmacy is aligned with the CDC’s position on preventive care, and we are well-positioned to deliver the services that promote the health and wellness of patients in the communities we serve," Ghassan Hourani, vice president and general merchandise manager of Kmart Pharmacy, said in a statement. "At Kmart Pharmacy, our pharmacists will take the time to discuss with our patients the importance of being vaccinated as well as practicing good health habits."

The retailer added that Kmart pharmacists also are on hand to provide patients with guidance on how best to avoid illness during the cold and flu season, as well as to answer their questions about the flu vaccine and ensure that they have the most up-to-date flu vaccination.