GOLDEN, Colo. — As part of their flu vaccination effort, Kroger Co. supermarket pharmacies and Little Clinic health clinics are offering needle-free injections from Pharmajet Inc.

Pharmajet said Wednesday that its needleless injection system is available for flu immunizations at more than 800 Kroger Co. in-store pharmacies nationwide — including its Kroger, Fry’s and King Soopers banners — as well as at 79 Little Clinics.

"Needle-free flu shots are as effective as traditional needle-delivered shots and provide a sense of ease to those who might not otherwise receive the vaccine because of the needle," Dr. Ken Patric, chief medical officer of Kroger’s The Little Clinic unit, said in a statement.

Kroger Co. vice president of pharmacy Lincoln Lutz commented, "Health experts recommend a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step to protect against seasonal flu viruses. Kroger’s family of stores offer a variety of options to our customers, including needle-free flu vaccinations available in many locations and a customized Workplace Flu program to help companies provide for their employees."

According to Pharmajet, needle-free technology uses a spring-operated injector to deliver the vaccine through the skin via a narrow, high-velocity fluid jet. The company said its injections are delivered in one-fifth of a second, with minimal pain sensation.

The Little Clinic offered the needle-free option in select locations last year with positive patient feedback, especially from parents whose children were afraid of traditional needle shots, Pharmajet said.

"PharmaJet’s needle-free injectors have received FDA marketing clearance for use with liquid medicines and vaccines and are available throughout the United States," stated James Bowman, president of PharmaJet. "We are pleased to join forces with Kroger to provide advanced technology and enhanced customer experience at the Kroger locations."