Seasonal flu shots are now available and area health officials are urging residents to get their flu shots early.

According to Jennifer Greene of the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System, it is especially important for children, older adults, those with medical conditions, and pregnant women should get their flu shots as soon as possible.

The Watauga County Health Department will be hosting a seasonal flu vaccine clinic on Wednesday afternoon, October 7 from 1:00 until 4:30.  Greene said the health department accepts Medicare, Medicaid, Humana, and Health Choice insurance.

While the seasonal flu vaccine is important, health officials stress that it will not protect residents from the H1N1 virus.  The H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available soon and more information about the vaccine will be released in the coming weeks.