Wake begins offering flu shots

Both FluMist and the shot for the seasonal flu will be available at a cost of $30 apiece. There is no charge for children 6 months through age 18. Pregnant women may also be eligible for a free vaccination and should ask at the time of service.

Vaccinations will be administered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday in Room G35. No appointment is necessary.

Click a location on the map below for other dates and locations for flu clinics across the county.

Although the vaccinations being offered will not protect against the H1N1 strain of the flu, Peter J. Morris, medical director of Wake County Human Services, advised that high-risk groups, including children and parents, get both vaccines. The first round of H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available early in October, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Federal guidelines call for the new vaccine to be given first to pregnant women, those who live with or care for children 6 months or younger, health care workers, people aged 6 months through 24 years, and people with chronic health problems or compromised immune systems.

Morris said the best way to avoid the flu is by practicing common sense -- washing hands often with soap and water and covering noses and mouths when sneezing or coughing.