The county health department has started flu vaccinations. Shots and nasal sprays are offered Mondays, Wednesdays (except first Wednesdays of the month) and Fridays, 8:30 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m., at the Human Services Building, 414 E. Main St.

Vaccinations are free for students at North Carolina colleges, Medicaid beneficiaries, Medicare recipients not in a managed-care program, children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program and employees in health-care jobs.

For everyone else, the charge is $29 for a shot, $31 for nasal treatment. However, charges are adjusted according to patients' income.

Urgent Cares of America are offering free flu shots for children ages 4 years old and up, including university and college students. The offer covers children and university and college students with a valid student ID and will be available while supplies last.

By offering the program, Urgent Cares is joining a growing list of retailers and clinics offering free or discounted flu shots. Following last year's flu shot shortage, many manufacturers produced extra doses and stores ordered surplus supplies. (See News & Observer story, Dec. 24, 2010.)

Urgent Cares of America operate nine locations in Asheville, Boone, Cary, Clayton, Garner, Fuquay-Varina and Wake Forest. For more information or to find a location, visit www.rucn.info or call 550-0821.

Kerr Drug is giving seasonal flu vaccinations at two locations on the state fairgrounds: The Kerr Drug dome, on the southeast side of Dorton Arena (along Hillborough Street); and next to the Holshouser Building near the Flower and Garden Show.

The vaccine is approved for people 6 months of age or older.

Vaccinations are $30 each but may be covered by your insurance provider. Kerr Drug will file claims for those who have Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the state health plan or Medicare Part B coverage. Bring your insurance card and primary care physicians’ information.