Seasonal flu vaccines will become available through the Department of Health starting today, according to a spokeswoman.

While those over the age of 65 will receive the shot free of charge, the vaccine will cost $10 for other members of the public.

The spokeswoman said: “The flu vaccine will be available at the Health Centres, and at the offices of most private physicians.

“The Department of Health will also be offering influenza immunisation in the community through the ‘Flu Express.’ The ‘Flu Express’ will enable people to drive to a designated site and receive the flu vaccine while waiting in their car, without having to get out. This will make it easier for some people to access the vaccine.”

The spokeswoman said that those who are over the age of 65 are recommended to attend the flu express, along with children under the age of ten, adults who are in close contact with the elderly, infants or seniors, healthcare workers and people with chronic health problems and are at risk of complications from the flu.

The vaccine will not be given to anyone who has had reactions to past fly shots, has a fever, has had a convulsion in the last year or who has allergies to eggs, chicken products or components of the vaccine.

The Flu Express is scheduled to visit Penno’s Wharf today, the Rubber Tree in Warwick on Wednesday and the St James Church parking lot in Sandys on Thursday, remaining at each location between 10am and 2pm. The Flu Express will also attend the Hamilton Health Centre parking lot on Saturday between 10am and 2pm.

The Hamilton Health Centre will also be open Monday through Friday between 8.30am to 11.30am and from 2pm to 4pm on Wednesdays. The Somerset Health Centre is open between 2pm and 4pm on Wednesdays, and the St George’s Health Centre will be available for vaccines between 2pm and 4pm on Fridays.

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious infection typically spread from person to person by coughs and sneezes. Thousands of people, mostly elderly people, die each year in the United States due to complications of the ailment.

Symptoms of flu develop two to four days after exposure, and usually include a sore throat, runny nose, high fever, headache, backache, muscle pains, fatigue and general malaise. While most people recover within a few days with extra fluids and bed rest, the infection is more serious in the very young, the elderly, pregnant women and people with other medical conditions.

In addition to a flu vaccine, the spread of the flu can be reduced by frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, proper disposal of soiled tissues and avoiding crowded places.