DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens has issued the following statement on the COVID-19 surge:

“As the nation experiences a surge in COVID-19 cases coinciding with the holidays, we are seeing unprecedented demand for related testing and vaccine services and products. We remain committed to offering convenient access to COVID-19 vaccinations and testing services and products that are critical to helping protect our communities.

“Walgreens pharmacy team members have administered nearly 55 million COVID-19 vaccines and more than 22 million COVID-19 tests across the United States. COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are available in our stores across the country, and we operate more than 7,200 COVID-19 testing locations.

“Availability for free COVID-19 testing appointments fluctuates daily and is limited in many areas of the country leading up to the holidays. We anticipate appointment availability will continue to rapidly evolve and encourage customers to visit Walgreens.com/Covid19Testing to determine availability and schedule their appointment.

“Additionally, we have been working closely with our lab partners to expand testing capacity while minimizing turnaround times for test results. We anticipate 24- to 48-hour turnaround time for COVID-19 PCR test results. Rapid point-of-care tests are also available and results will continue to be available in less than 24 hours.

“We’ve also seen an increase in demand for rapid O-T-C COVID-19 tests and are working with our suppliers to ensure customers have access to self-test kits through the holidays. Due to the incredible demand for at-home rapid testing, we put into effect a four-item purchase limit on at-home COVID-19 testing products in our stores and digital properties in an effort to help improve inventory while we continue to work diligently with our supplier partners to best meet customer demands. Some stores may experience a temporary shortage in rapid O-T-C testing solutions. For consumers looking for specific items, Walgreens.com updates with the latest available store inventory information frequently throughout the day.

“As one of the most important ways to protect communities against the spread of COVID-19, Walgreens continues to prioritize the administration of COVID-19 vaccines. Individuals are highly encouraged to make vaccination appointments in advance through the Walgreens app or online for the best possible experience.

“We remain committed to meeting the needs of our customers and patients and are doing all we can to support our communities during this critical time,” said John Standley, Walgreens president. “With heightened demand for COVID vaccines, testing and other services, in addition to the busy holiday season, our pharmacy and store team members are working incredibly hard every day. We ask that our customers please show patience and understanding as together, we continue to navigate the evolving pandemic environment.”