Mayo Clinic Health Systems will be offering flu vaccinations at various locations in Mower County throughout the month of October.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone over the age of 6 months. The best way to prevent getting — and spreading — the flu is to get the flu vaccine. It is especially important for people who meet these criteria to get vaccinated:

• Young children under 5, and especially those under 2 years

• Pregnant women

• People 65 or older

• People who live with or care for others at high risk of developing serious complications including caregivers of people with chronic medical conditions

Each year’s seasonal flu vaccine contains protection from influenza viruses that are expected to be the most common during that year’s flu season. This year the vaccine is available as an injection and nasal spray, though availability may vary.

Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available at most locations. The flu vaccine will be offered by appointment only.

Flu vaccine clinics in Mower County will be held on the following dates:

• Saturday, Oct. 6, 8 a.m. to noon at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin – call 507-433-8758 for an appointment

• Monday, Oct. 8, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin – call 507-433-8758 for an appointment

• Wednesday, Oct. 17, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin – call 507-433-8758 for an appointment

• Friday, Oct. 19, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mayo Clinic Health System in Adams – call 507-582-3547 for an appointment

Flu shots are also available at Express Care in Austin for walk-ins only. Express Care will only administer flu vaccines to ages 12 and older.

The cost of seasonal flu vaccine is covered by most insurance plans. Mayo Clinic Health System will bill insurance or accept payment.