The Southwest Utah Public Health Department (SWUPHD) expects to receive their first shipments of influenza vaccine in September and has scheduled "Flu Shoot-Outs" for each county  in southwest Utah.

"This year we've been able to arrange free flu vaccinations for each of our Shoot-Outs," said Paulette Valentine, SWUPHD Emergency Preparedness/Communicable Disease Director. "This is also the first time that it's been recommended for everyone over the age of six months. We hope as many people as possible will be able to come to one of our events and get immunized at no charge."

A new flu vaccine is developed annually to immunize people against the top three flu bugs that are the most likely to cause the most trouble as fall arrives. This year's vaccine includes H1N1 serum in case that infamous virus makes a comeback.

Another advancement for this flu season is a special, high-potency flu shot for people 65 and older called "Fluzone High-Dose". This vaccine was designed to improve the immunity of this vulnerable age group who typically do not get the full benefit from the traditional flu shot.

Getting a flu shot is a safe way to help prevent the flu, with over 100 million flu vaccines administered every year in the United States.

Flu Shoot-Out Schedule (FREE to ALL AGES, bring insurance card if available):
St. George    Saturday, Sept. 18 (9am to 1pm)          Dixie State College (enter at 300 S.)
Kanab          Saturday, Sept. 18 (10am to 1pm)        Kane Co. Health Fair (Kanab High School)
Beaver         Wednesday, Sept. 22 (11am to 4pm)     Fire Station
Panguitch     Thursday, Sept. 30 (11am to 4pm)        Fire Station
Cedar City   Saturday, Oct. 9 (9am to 1pm)             VVMC Health Fair (Valley View Hospital)
Hurricane     Tuesday, Oct. 19 (11am to 4pm)            Hurricane Community Center

Free flu vaccine will be offered at Shoot-Outs only, while supplies last. SWUPHD offices will offer the vaccine during clinic hours for $25, reduced rate for qualified children, or no charge with some insurances.