Starting this season, the recommendation for influenza vaccination for children was changed. All children between the ages of 6 months and 18 years are recommended to be routinely vaccinated for influenza.

Vaccine for all ages, both pediatric and adult, is still available. Scott County Public Health offers a walk-in immunization clinic at the Workforce Development Center, 792 Canterbury Road S., Suite A-160, Shakopee, every Monday from 1 to 5 p.m.

Guidelines for eligibility to participate in the state-funded Minnesota Vaccines for Children (MnVFC) program include children through age 18 who are uninsured, on medical assistance or MinnesotaCare, or who have insurance that does not cover vaccines or have not met their deductible for vaccines. There is no charge for vaccine for anyone who qualifies for the MnVFC program, but a donation of $10 per immunization is appreciated to help cover administrative costs. Vaccines available include all immunizations required for day care, Head Start, or public school enrollment: DTaP, Td, IPV, Hib, MMR, PCV-7, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Varicella.

Other vaccines are also available on the MnVFC program.  Rotateq (rotavirus vaccine), Tdap (the new tetanus vaccine with a pertussis vaccine component), Menactra (the newer meningococcal vaccine), and Gardasil (the vaccine for human papillomavirus that prevents cervical cancer) are all available.

Other vaccines for all ages are available at a reduced fee. The charge for an adult flu vaccine, or for children who do not qualify for the above program and need a flu shot, is $25. For those eligible for Medicare part B, there is no charge. Call (952) 496-8555 for more information.