The autumn weather is a sign that winter is just around the corner and that it is time to get your flu shot.

The Newberry County Health Department has started taking appointments for flu shots and will start giving the vaccination on Monday.

County Health Supervisor Beth Bozard, says she does not see any problems with shortages of the vaccine this year.

With influenza season approaching, South Carolinians and especially those at a higher risk for flu-related complications, along with those who live with or care for people at high risk, are encouraged to get their flu vaccinations, according to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

“The best way to reduce the effects of the flu virus is to take the flu vaccine,“ said Jerry Gibson, M.D., director of DHEC's Bureau of Disease Control. “The vaccine provides immunity not only to the person who receives it, but also to the community at large when more people are protected. We particularly want to urge people who are at the greatest risk from flu, or those who care for them, to make vaccination a priority.“

Gibson said the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting that a significant amount of influenza vaccine should be available in physician's offices and communities by the end of September to allow vaccinations to begin in most counties. DHEC's public health regions across the state will begin offering flu shot clinics in October. Information about DHEC clinics near you will be regularly updated on the DHEC Web site at http://www.scdhec.gov/flu.

Prices for the shots vary, however at DHEC clinics, there is a $25 charge for the vaccination, which Medicare and Medicaid will cover for those who are eligible. Medicare Advantage enrollees should contact their plans to learn whether a certain provider needs to provide the flu shot. Free flu vaccine is also provided to children and adolescents eligible through the DHEC Vaccine Assurance For All Children Immunization.

“DHEC has ordered about 290,000 doses for our clinics and partner providers,“ Gibson said. “The majority of the flu vaccine available in our state will be through private providers such as doctor's offices and other locations.“

To schedule an appointment at the Newberry County Health Department, call 321-2170. The department is located at 2111 Wilson Road.